Emicizumab for Von Willebrand Disease
(WILL-EMI Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a treatment called emicizumab for individuals with Type 3 von Willebrand disease, a condition that hinders blood clotting. Emicizumab aids in more effective blood clotting. The study compares emicizumab to the usual treatment to determine its effectiveness in reducing bleeding episodes. Participants will either switch to emicizumab or continue their current treatment to assess which is more effective. Those experiencing frequent bleeding despite treatment might be well-suited for this trial. As a Phase 3 trial, this study represents the final step before FDA approval, offering participants the opportunity to contribute to a potentially groundbreaking treatment.
Do I need to stop my current medications for the trial?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop your current medications, but it does mention that you cannot use systemic immunomodulators (medications that affect the immune system) during the study, except for anti-retroviral therapy.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that emicizumab has been studied for safety in individuals with severe blood disorders like Von Willebrand Disease (VWD). In one study, a child with severe VWD used emicizumab for 51 weeks, effectively preventing bleeding without major safety issues.
Emicizumab is already approved for treating other bleeding disorders, such as hemophilia A, and patients have generally tolerated it well. This suggests it might also be safe for people with similar conditions. However, like any treatment, side effects can occur. Discuss these with the trial team or your doctor.12345Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising for von Willebrand disease?
Researchers are excited about emicizumab for Von Willebrand Disease because it offers a new approach compared to existing treatments. Unlike standard therapies, which often involve replacing missing clotting factors through infusions, emicizumab is a monoclonal antibody delivered via subcutaneous injection. This convenient delivery method means fewer hospital visits and potentially greater adherence. Additionally, emicizumab works by bridging activated factors IX and X, bypassing the need for factor VIII, which can provide a more consistent bleeding control experience for patients.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for Von Willebrand Disease?
Studies have shown that emicizumab can improve blood clotting in people with von Willebrand disease (VWD). Research indicates that it enhances the body's ability to form clots, helping to prevent bleeding. In patients with VWD, emicizumab has effectively reduced bleeding episodes and improved quality of life. One study found that three out of four patients experienced significant improvement. In this trial, participants in Arm A and Arm C will receive emicizumab prophylaxis, while those in Arm B will continue with their current on-demand standard of care treatment. Emicizumab's known effectiveness in similar bleeding disorders supports its potential for VWD.12678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Clinical Trials
Principal Investigator
Hoffmann-La Roche
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for people aged 2 and older with Type 3 von Willebrand Disease who've had at least two bleeds treated with factor concentrate in the last 24 weeks. They must have a confirmed diagnosis, stable organ function, and if of childbearing potential, agree to use contraception. Those already on standard prophylactic or on-demand therapies are eligible.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive emicizumab prophylaxis or continue SOC on-demand therapy for 24 weeks
Treatment Extension
Participants who benefit from emicizumab can continue prophylaxis in the extension period
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Emicizumab
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Hoffmann-La Roche
Lead Sponsor
Dr. Levi Garraway
Hoffmann-La Roche
Chief Medical Officer since 2019
MD from the University of Basel
Dr. Thomas Schinecker
Hoffmann-La Roche
Chief Executive Officer since 2023
PhD in Molecular Biology from New York University