Inebilizumab for Myasthenia Gravis
(MINT Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests inebilizumab for individuals with myasthenia gravis, a condition that causes muscle weakness. The researchers aim to determine if inebilizumab can reduce symptoms compared to a placebo (a substance with no therapeutic effect). Participants will receive either inebilizumab or a placebo through an IV (intravenous) infusion. Ideal candidates for this trial have myasthenia gravis with anti-AChR or anti-MuSK antibodies and experience moderate to severe muscle weakness. As a Phase 3 trial, this study represents the final step before FDA approval, offering participants a chance to contribute to the potential availability of a new treatment.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires that you continue taking certain medications, like corticosteroids or specific immunosuppressive therapies, without increasing the dose before joining. However, you must stop using certain other medications, like cyclosporine, tacrolimus, and methotrexate, at least 4 weeks before starting the trial.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that inebilizumab has been tested for safety in treating generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG), a long-term autoimmune disorder. In a study with 238 participants, most tolerated inebilizumab well. A small number (5.6%) developed antibodies, indicating an immune reaction to the treatment.
The overall safety of inebilizumab was considered manageable, with side effects not too severe or difficult to handle. The FDA has already approved the treatment for another condition, suggesting it is relatively safe. However, individual reactions can vary. Prospective trial participants should discuss any concerns with their doctor.12345Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising for myasthenia gravis?
Researchers are excited about inebilizumab for myasthenia gravis because it offers a unique approach compared to standard treatments like acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, corticosteroids, and immunosuppressants. Unlike these traditional options, inebilizumab targets CD19, a protein on B cells, helping to reduce the number of cells that produce harmful antibodies. This new mechanism could mean more targeted treatment with potentially fewer side effects. Additionally, its administration via intravenous infusion provides a controlled delivery method that might improve its effectiveness and tolerability.
What evidence suggests that inebilizumab might be an effective treatment for myasthenia gravis?
In this trial, participants will receive either inebilizumab or a placebo to evaluate the treatment's effectiveness for myasthenia gravis. Research has shown that inebilizumab can significantly improve symptoms of this condition, where the immune system disrupts communication between nerves and muscles. Studies have found that patients taking inebilizumab experienced a greater reduction in their MG-ADL score, which measures daily life challenges, compared to those taking a placebo. One study noted a difference of -2.8 in symptom improvement when comparing inebilizumab to placebo, indicating significant benefits. Another study reported meaningful improvements in both MG-ADL and QMG scores, which evaluate muscle strength and abilities, over 26 weeks. These findings suggest that inebilizumab may effectively manage myasthenia gravis symptoms.13678
Who Is on the Research Team?
MD
Principal Investigator
Amgen
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for people with Myasthenia Gravis, a condition causing muscle weakness. Participants must have certain antibodies and scores indicating moderate to severe symptoms. They should be on stable doses of specific treatments like corticosteroids or immunosuppressants but not others like cyclosporine or high-dose acetylcholinesterase inhibitors.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Randomized Controlled Period (RCP)
Participants receive either inebilizumab or placebo administered intravenously on specified days
Open-label Period (OLP)
Participants who complete the RCP may opt into receiving inebilizumab for an extended period
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Inebilizumab
- IV Placebo
Inebilizumab is already approved in United States, European Union, Canada for the following indications:
- Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) in adults who are anti-aquaporin-4 (AQP4) antibody positive
- Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) in adults who are anti-aquaporin-4 (AQP4) antibody positive
- Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) in adults who are anti-aquaporin-4 (AQP4) antibody positive
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Viela Bio
Lead Sponsor
Amgen
Lead Sponsor
Robert A. Bradway
Amgen
Chief Executive Officer since 2012
MBA from Harvard Business School
Paul Burton
Amgen
Chief Medical Officer since 2023
MD from University of London, PhD in Molecular and Cellular Biology from Imperial College London
Viela Bio (acquired by Horizon Therapeutics)
Lead Sponsor