Adverse Events Common, But Mostly Mild, in Teprotumumab Treatment

Adverse events (AE) in patients who use teprotumumab to control inflammation and proptosis associated with thyroid eye disease are common, according to a presentation at the American Academy of Ophthalmology 2021 meeting, held in New Orleans, November 12-15. However, most of these AEs were mild to moderate, and were reversible, presenters reported.

The researchers reported on a case series of 51 patients undergoing treatment. The study took into account patients from 3 centers who were monitored for AEs and had a mean follow-up of 35 weeks. The researchers found that 40 patients (78%) did develop some form of AE related to the treatment. These AEs included muscle cramps (58%), diarrhea (40%), hair loss (33%), fatigue (23%), hearing loss (23%), hyperglycemia (18%), and rash (10%). The researchers reported that 80% of the AEs were mild to moderate and did not require treatment alteration or interruption. Intervention was required in 8 patients (20%), including 2 whose treatment was suspended temporarily and 6 who ceased using the therapeutic altogether. 

Mean time to development of AEs was after 2 infusions (range: 1-5 infusions). In most patients (n=25, 63%) AEs either resolved or improved, and in 12 (30%) persistent symptoms were noted at last follow-up.

Since a small percentage of AEs did require interruption or cessation of therapy, the presenters noted that “protocols for screening, prevention and management of AEs are therefore advised.”

Reference

Sears CM, Kang JY, Clauss KD, Cockerham K, Wester ST, Kossler AN. Teprotumumab-related adverse events in TED. Paper presented at the American Academy of Ophthalmology 2021 Annual Meeting; November 12-15, 2021; New Orleans. Abstract PA058.