Tolvaptan for Polycystic Kidney Disease
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores the safety of tolvaptan as a potential treatment for children and teens with autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD). ARPKD causes cysts (fluid-filled sacs) to develop in the kidneys, which can lead to kidney damage. The trial will test tolvaptan in two forms: a liquid suspension and tablets, both taken daily for 18 months. Eligible participants have been diagnosed with ARPKD but do not have other kidney conditions or complications like abnormal liver function. As a Phase 3 trial, this study represents the final step before FDA approval, offering participants a chance to contribute to a potentially groundbreaking treatment.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires that you stop taking certain medications, such as those that induce CYP3A4, vasopressin agonists, and other treatments for PKD cysts. If you are on these medications, you may need to stop them to participate in the trial.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that tolvaptan has been studied for safety in individuals with a condition similar to ARPKD, known as ADPKD. In past studies, most participants tolerated tolvaptan well, though some experienced side effects, including impacts on liver function. Therefore, regular safety checks are crucial during treatment. The FDA has already approved tolvaptan for adults with ADPKD, indicating its safety is well-documented. However, this trial focuses on children with ARPKD, so results might differ. Always consult the trial team for the most current safety information.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Researchers are excited about Tolvaptan for polycystic kidney disease because it offers a unique approach to treatment. Unlike current standard options like blood pressure medications and pain relievers, Tolvaptan specifically targets vasopressin receptors to slow the growth of kidney cysts. This mechanism directly addresses cyst development, which is a root cause of the disease, rather than just managing symptoms. Additionally, Tolvaptan is available in both suspension and tablet forms, providing flexibility in administration and potentially improving patient adherence. This targeted action and versatility make Tolvaptan a promising candidate for managing polycystic kidney disease more effectively.
What evidence suggests that tolvaptan might be an effective treatment for polycystic kidney disease?
Research has shown that tolvaptan can slow the worsening of kidney function in people with polycystic kidney disease, which is crucial for those affected. Tolvaptan targets a specific part of the kidney, slowing the growth of kidney cysts. In this trial, participants will receive either the liquid suspension or tablet form of tolvaptan. Patients taking tolvaptan have experienced a slower decline in kidney function, as measured by the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). This benefit has been observed in both clinical trials and everyday use.34567
Who Is on the Research Team?
Olga Sergeyeva, MD
Principal Investigator
Olga.Sergeyeva@otsuka-us.com
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for infants and children from 28 days old to under 18 years with ARPKD. Participants need informed consent from parents or guardians, must be able to follow the trial's procedures, and not have been born prematurely if under 12 weeks old. They can't join if they require dialysis, have had a kidney transplant, severe anemia or heart issues, electrolyte imbalances, are on certain other medications including experimental drugs for PKD or CYP3A4 inducers.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive tolvaptan either as a suspension or tablets for 18 months
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Tolvaptan
Tolvaptan is already approved in United States, European Union for the following indications:
- Hyponatremia
- Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone (SIADH)
- Heart Failure
- Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD)
- Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD)
- Hyponatremia
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Otsuka Pharmaceutical Development & Commercialization, Inc.
Lead Sponsor
John Kraus
Otsuka Pharmaceutical Development & Commercialization, Inc.
Chief Medical Officer since 2023
MD, PhD
Tarek Rabah
Otsuka Pharmaceutical Development & Commercialization, Inc.
Chief Executive Officer since 2022
BS in Biology and BA in Business from the American University of Beirut, MBA from McGill University