Alefacept.
black triangle Alefacept (recombinant human LFA-3/IgG(1) fusion protein) is a novel biologic agent that selectively targets memory-effector CD45RO+ T lymphocytes, implicated in psoriasis pathogenesis. black triangle In placebo-controlled studies, once-weekly administration of alefacept 7.5mg intravenous (IV) and 15mg intramuscular (IM) for 12 weeks significantly improved psoriasis and produced durable clinical improvements in patients with moderate-to-severe chronic plaque psoriasis who responded. black triangle At any time during the first 12-week course of alefacept (followed by 12 weeks' treatment-free follow-up), approximately 30% of patients achieved the primary endpoint of a > or =75% improvement in psoriasis, while approximately 55% achieved a > or =50% improvement; the corresponding results during a second course were approximately 40% and 70%, respectively. black triangle Alefacept therapy significantly improved quality of life in responders, who reported improved perception of overall health, increased energy levels, and enhanced emotional well-being. black triangle One or two 12-week courses of IV alefacept 7.5 mg/week and IM alefacept 15 mg/week were similarly well tolerated, with a safety/tolerability profile similar to placebo. No organ-based toxicity or disease rebound after alefacept withdrawal has been reported. black triangle Alefacept exhibits a low potential for immunogenicity and has no clinical effects indicative of generalized immunosuppression. No opportunistic infections have been reported, nor is there evidence of an increased risk of malignancies.
Frampton
James
J
Adis International Inc., Langhorne, Pennsylvania 19047, USA. demail@adis.com
Wagstaff
Antona
A
D000077944:Alefacept; D003879:Dermatologic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D007273:Injections, Intramuscular; D011565:Psoriasis / Q000188:drug therapy*; D011788:Quality of Life; D011993:Recombinant Fusion Proteins / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D003879:Dermatologic Agents; D011993:Recombinant Fusion Proteins; D000077944:Alefacept