Ublituximab and the Anti-CD20 Class in Multiple Sclerosis: Lawrence Steinman, MD

“The convenience factor allows for an infusion—after the first, which goes a little more slowly out of necessity for safety considerations—every half year, and it only takes an hour. I think that will have a good impact on the lives of an individual [with MS].”

Data from the recent phase 3 ULTIMATE I (NCT03277261) and ULTIMATE II (NCT03277248) clinical trials of TG Therapeutics’ investigational agent for the treatment of relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS) were presented at the 2021 American Academy of Neurology (AAN) Annual Meeting. The data suggest that the therapy is safe and effective in the treatment of these patients, showing significant superiority to teriflunomide (Aubagio; Sanofi).

Lawrence Steinman, MD, professor of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Pediatrics, and Genetics, and head, Steinman Lab, Stanford Medicine, who presented the data, pointed specifically to a number of measures in the study, particularly the low annualized relapse rates (ARRs). As well, there were low rates of confirmed disability progression (CDP), though these were not significantly different from teriflunomide. In this instance, more than 94% of patients showed no 12-week CDP, and more than 96% showed no CDP through 24 weeks.

To find out more about the data presented and how anti-CD20 agents and ublituximab fit into the MS therapeutic landscape, NeurologyLive spoke with Steinman. He elaborated on the findings and offered his perspective on the therapy’s potential.

For more coverage of AAN 2021, click here.

REFERENCE
Steinman L, Fox EJ, Hartung H, et al. Efficacy and safety of ublituximab versus teriflunomide in relapsing multiple sclerosis: Results of the Phase 3 ULTIMATE I and II trials. Presented at 2021 American Academy of Neurology Annual Meeting, April 17-22. Poster 9056.