Global biotherapeutics leader CSL Behring announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Hizentra^® (Immune Globulin Subcutaneous [Human] 20% Liquid) as the first and only subcutaneous immunoglobulin (SCIg) for the treatment of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) as maintenance therapy to prevent relapse of neuromuscular disability and impairment. The approval was based on data from the Phase III PATH (Polyneuropathy And Treatment with Hizentra) study, which is the largest controlled clinical study in CIDP patients to date. CIDP is a rare autoimmune disorder that affects the peripheral nerves and may cause permanent nerve damage.

 

"This new FDA approval for Hizentra marks a pivotal milestone for patients struggling with the disabling neurological effects of CIDP," said Dr. Andrew Cuthbertson, Chief Scientific Officer and R&D Director, CSL Limited. "As the first and only subcutaneous immunoglobulin therapy approved to treat CIDP, and studied in the largest controlled clinical trial for CIDP, Hizentra offers patients a more convenient treatment option with proven efficacy and the flexibility and freedom to self-infuse at home. CSL Behring is deeply committed to delivering innovative therapies to patients with rare and serious diseases like CIDP, and today we are proud to now offer a portfolio of immunoglobulin therapies for CIDP."

The PATH study demonstrated that the percentage of patients experiencing CIDP relapse or withdrawal for any other reason during SCIg treatment was significantly lower with Hizentra (38.6 percent on low-dose Hizentra [0.2 g/kg weekly]; 32.8 percent on high-dose Hizentra [0.4 g/kg weekly]; p values = 0.007 and <0.001 respectively) than with placebo (63.2 percent). Additionally, the PATH study demonstrated that patients on Hizentra reported fewer systemic adverse reactions (ARs) per infusion compared to IVIg treatment (2.7 percent versus 9.8 percent, respectively). In fact, 93 percent of the 4,225 total Hizentra infusions were free of any ARs.

"As a practicing neurologist treating patients with CIDP, I am excited to have a safe and effective subcutaneous treatment option to offer my patients who are interested in more treatment flexibility and control in their busy lives," said Dr. Todd Levine, Phoenix Neurological Associates.  

In CIDP, the myelin sheath, or the protective covering of the nerves, is damaged, which may result in numbness or tingling, muscle weakness, fatigue, and other symptoms. The effects of CIDP can worsen over time, leading to significant activity limitations and a decreased quality of life. Approximately 30 percent of CIDP patients will progress to wheelchair dependence if not treated.

"Despite available treatment options, many CIDP patients continue to struggle with daily disease and lifestyle challenges, making continued research and innovation critical," said Lisa Butler, executive director of the GBS|CIDP Foundation International. "The approval of Hizentra offers patients who were once burdened by traveling to the infusion center or hospital the flexibility to self-administer their treatment at a time, place, and on a schedule that's convenient for them."