Avacopan for Vasculitis
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a medication called avacopan (Tavneos) to determine its safety for long-term use in individuals with ANCA-associated vasculitis, a specific type of blood vessel inflammation. The trial compares avacopan to a placebo, both used alongside standard treatments. It suits those recently diagnosed or experiencing a relapse of conditions such as granulomatosis with polyangiitis or microscopic polyangiitis, who require treatments like cyclophosphamide or rituximab. Participants should exhibit specific symptoms, such as blood in urine or positive antibody tests. As a Phase 4 trial, avacopan has already received FDA approval and proven effective, and this research aims to understand how it benefits more patients.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires that certain medications be stopped before participation. If you are taking azathioprine, mycophenolate, or methotrexate, these must be withdrawn before starting cyclophosphamide or rituximab. Additionally, if you are on a strong or moderate inducer of the CYP3A4 enzyme, it must be changed to an alternative at least 1 week before starting the trial.
What is the safety track record for Avacopan?
Studies have shown that avacopan is generally well-tolerated by people with ANCA-associated vasculitis. Research indicates that avacopan causes fewer serious side effects compared to traditional treatments. For example, those taking avacopan report fewer serious infections than those not taking it. Other evidence shows that avacopan is linked with fewer serious adverse events overall compared to other treatments.
Additionally, avacopan is approved for use in adults with ANCA-associated vasculitis, indicating it has met strict safety standards for this condition. However, like any treatment, it can have side effects, so discussing potential risks with a healthcare provider is important.12345Why are researchers enthusiastic about this study treatment?
Researchers are excited about Avacopan for treating vasculitis because it offers a new way to manage the condition. Unlike traditional treatments that rely heavily on corticosteroids, Avacopan specifically targets the C5a receptor, a part of the immune system involved in inflammation. This targeted approach has the potential to reduce the side effects associated with long-term steroid use. Additionally, Avacopan is taken orally, making it more convenient compared to some other treatments that require injections. Overall, Avacopan could provide a more precise and patient-friendly option for managing vasculitis.
What is the effectiveness track record for Avacopan in treating vasculitis?
Research has shown that avacopan works well for treating ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV). One study found that 71.7% of patients achieved remission at 26 weeks compared to those taking prednisone. Another study demonstrated that avacopan helped maintain remission for up to 52 weeks and reduced the risk of disease recurrence. These findings support avacopan's effectiveness in managing AAV. In this trial, participants may receive avacopan alongside standard care, avacopan for one year followed by a placebo, or a placebo with standard care. The treatment's approval underscores its proven success for this condition.14678
Who Is on the Research Team?
MD
Principal Investigator
Amgen
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults over 18 with a new or returning diagnosis of granulomatosis with polyangiitis or microscopic polyangiitis, needing cyclophosphamide or rituximab treatment. They must have tested positive for ANCA antibodies and show significant symptoms of vasculitis. Participants need at least minimal kidney function to join.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive Avacopan or placebo with standard of care for up to 5 years
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Avacopan
Avacopan is already approved in United States for the following indications:
- ANCA-associated vasculitis (granulomatosis with polyangiitis and microscopic polyangiitis)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
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