A new study, reported at the International Stroke Conference, indicates that a medication called liraglutide, which is often used for diabetes under the brand names Victoza and Saxenda, can benefit patients who’ve had mini-strokes or transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) and have diabetes.
Approval resulted from the phase 2 ReNeu trial (NCT03962543), which found a confirmed overall response rate (ORR) of 41% (95% CI, 29%-55%) in 58 adults and 52% (95% CI, 38%-65%) in 56 children. The importance of the approval was noted by Dr. Christopher L. Moertel of the University of Minnesota, specifically for adults, who had no FDA-approved therapy for NF1-associated PN.
The researchers found that patients who were treated with liraglutide were less likely to have a future stroke within 90 days compared with the usual care. In particular, about 14% of the usual care group had a new stroke, while only 8% of liraglutide-treated patients had the same. This result indicates that liraglutide lowers the risk of a future stroke by about 44%.
Additionally, more of the patients treated with liraglutide had better outcomes as far as functionality after the stroke was concerned. They were more likely to score 1 or less on a modified Rankin score, indicating little or no disability, compared to those who received usual care.
It should be emphasized, however, that while these results are promising, the study had to be discontinued early due to logistical problems; therefore, more research must be conducted to confirm these results. Liraglutide accomplishes this by mimicking a natural hormone within the body that enhances the regulation of blood sugar levels and possibly has neuroprotective benefits to the brain after a stroke. Therefore, it may bring with it new promise for facilitating better recovery and averting future strokes in diabetic patients who have suffered small strokes or TIAs.
Source: digimedupdates.com/mirdametinib-gains-fda-nod-for-nf-pn/
