The Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation has approved satralizumab (trade name ENSPRYNG). This is the the first and only subcutaneous treatment neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD); it can be administered at home. This was reported by Roche’s press service of the company.
Satralizumab was primarily created for adult and adolescent patients with NMOSD. Its mechanism of action is based on binding and blocking the IL-6 receptor. The drug was developed by the Chugai company (part of the Roche Group of companies) with the use of the new monoclonal antibodies recirculation technology. If compared with conventional monoclonal antibodies, the recirculating antibody technology allows the drug to remain in the bloodstream for a longer period of time and repeatedly bind to its target (the IL-6 receptor), suppressing IL-6 in such NMOSD to the maximum extent possible. The drug is administered subcutaneously once every four weeks, and the patients can make injections to themselves as a part of outpatient treatment.
Satralizumab is now approved in 56 countries, including the EU, Canada, Japan, China, and the USA. Patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder from all federal districts of the Russian Federation were provided with the necessary therapy according to the pre-registration access program.