Palovarotene for Stone Man Syndrome
(PIVOINE Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a treatment called palovarotene for individuals with Stone Man Syndrome, a rare condition where muscles and tissues turn into bone. The goal is to assess the safety and effectiveness of palovarotene in managing this condition in both adults and children. Participants will take the medication regularly and in higher doses during flare-ups. This trial may suit those who have completed a previous related study and live with Stone Man Syndrome. As a Phase 3 trial, it represents the final step before FDA approval, offering a chance to contribute to a potentially groundbreaking treatment.
Do I need to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
You may need to stop taking certain medications, like vitamin A, beta carotene, and some herbal supplements, as well as avoid certain drugs like tetracycline and strong CYP450 3A4 inhibitors. The trial protocol does not specify a general requirement to stop all current medications, but you should discuss your specific medications with the study team.
Is there any evidence suggesting that palovarotene is likely to be safe for humans?
Research has shown that palovarotene has been studied for its safety in people with Stone Man Syndrome, also known as fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP). One study aimed to gather real-world safety data on individuals treated with palovarotene, focusing on both children and adults with FOP.
Previous patients who took palovarotene generally tolerated the treatment well. Although some side effects were reported, they did not raise major safety concerns for most individuals. Ongoing research in different groups helps ensure the treatment remains safe.
Since the current trial is in a late phase, palovarotene has already undergone earlier testing stages, indicating it is likely safe for humans. Safety boards have closely monitored the drug, adding confidence to its safety profile.12345Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising?
Researchers are excited about palovarotene for Stone Man Syndrome because it targets the underlying process of abnormal bone formation, unlike traditional treatments that mainly focus on managing symptoms. Palovarotene is a retinoic acid receptor gamma (RARγ) agonist, which means it can potentially prevent the development of extra bone that characterizes this condition. This specific mechanism of action could offer a more direct approach to halting disease progression, providing hope for improved outcomes compared to current standards of care, such as physical therapy and pain management.
What evidence suggests that palovarotene might be an effective treatment for Stone Man Syndrome?
Research has shown that palovarotene, the investigational treatment in this trial, may help treat Stone Man Syndrome, also known as fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP). In previous studies, the drug significantly reduced the growth of new bone, a key problem in FOP. About 80% of patients experienced little to no abnormal bone growth, compared to only 20% of those who took a placebo. This suggests that palovarotene could effectively slow or stop harmful bone growth in this condition. However, while this marks significant progress, some results have varied, and more research is needed to ensure its long-term safety and effectiveness.16789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Ipsen Medical Director
Principal Investigator
Ipsen
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for males and females aged 14 or older with Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP) who have finished previous related studies. Participants under 18 must be fully skeletally mature, while those over 18 are presumed so. They should not have any conditions that could risk their safety or affect the study.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive chronic and flare-up treatment with palovarotene
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Palovarotene
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Ipsen
Lead Sponsor
David Loew
Ipsen
Chief Executive Officer since 2020
BA in Business Administration and MBA from the University of St. Gallen, Switzerland
Sandra Silvestri
Ipsen
Chief Medical Officer since 2023
MD, PhD