Takayasu Arteritis

New post-hoc analysis demonstrated efficacy of RINVOQ® (upadacitinib) in moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis patients with varying degrees of severity in head and neck involvement, with results in skin clearance, itch resolution and impact on quality of life at 16 weeks1 Atopic dermatitis in the head and neck regions can have a significant impact on the quality of life for patients and is highly prevalent based on real-world observational studies2-4 New data showcasing depth and strength across AbbVie's dermatology portfolio will be presented at the 33rd European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) Congress in Amsterdam NORTH CHICAGO, Ill., Sept. 25, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- AbbVie (NYSE: ABBV) today announced positive results from a new post-hoc analysis from the Measure Up 1 and Measure Up 2 Phase 3 studies. The analysis evaluated the efficacy of upadacitinib (15 mg or 30 mg) in patients with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD) stratified by the severity of disease in the head and neck region at baseline compared to placebo across 16 weeks.1 In this analysis, several optimal and stringent treatment targets – including the achievement of near complete skin clearance in the head and neck region (EASI Head & Neck score <1), near complete skin clearance (EASI 90), no to little itch (WP-NRS 0/1) and minimal or no impact on quality of life (DLQI 0/1) – were assessed with the treatment of upadacitinib across patient subgroups. Patients were stratified by no-to-mild, moderate, or severe head and neck involvement.1 Living with uncontrolled AD can have a substantial physical, emotional and social impact on patients' lives and is often associated with significant long-term disease burden from debilitating symptoms.5 Research shows that AD in specific sites such as the head, neck, face and hands can have a significant impact on symptom frequency and quality of life for patients.2,6 In the real-world observational setting, 70% of AD patients in the UP-TAINED study and at least 74.5% of AD patients in the AD-VISE study had head and neck region involvement at baseline.3,4 The high prevalence reinforces the need for effective therapies in this high impact, challenging to treat area. "These data stratify the severity of atopic dermatitis in the head and neck region, which is a part of the body that has significant impact on patients and is challenging to treat," said Kilian Eyerich, MD, PhD, chair and professor at the Department of Dermatology and Venerology of the University of Freiburg, Germany. "At 16 weeks, RINVOQ showed efficacy in patients with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis with various degrees of head and neck involvement, achieving optimal treatment targets with combined measures of EASI 90 and WP-NRS 0/1, along with improvement on the patients' quality of life measured by DLQI 0/1 in a substantial number of patients." New post-hoc analysis of the Measure Up 1 and Measure Up 2 studies showed that a higher proportion of patients with moderate-to-severe AD with varying degrees of head and neck involvement treated with upadacitinib (15 mg or 30 mg) achieved the following optimal treatment targets compared to placebo at week 16: near complete skin clearance in the head and neck region (EASI Head & Neck Score <1), minimal or no impact on quality of life (DLQI 0/1), and minimal disease activity, which is the simultaneous achievement of near complete skin clearance (EASI 90) and no to little itch (WP-NRS 0/1)1: Primary efficacy and safety results from these ongoing pivotal studies have been previously reported: . "Despite taking steps to manage their condition, many patients with atopic dermatitis continue to live with debilitating symptoms, especially in highly visible areas such as head and neck that can intensify one's physical and emotional burden," said Andrew Anisfeld, PhD, vice president, global medical affairs, immunology, AbbVie. "These data contribute to our ongoing commitment to elevate the standard of care in atopic dermatitis so patients can strive for the best possible outcomes." Additional abstracts to be presented at EADV 2024 supporting the efficacy and safety profile of RINVOQ (upadacitinib) for moderate-to-severe AD include: Efficacy and safety of upadacitinib vs dupilumab in adults and adolescents with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis: results of an open-label, efficacy assessor-blinded head-to-head phase 3b/4 study (LEVEL UP): This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of RINVOQ (15 mg once daily starting dose and dose-adjusted based on clinical response) versus dupilumab (per its labeled dose) in adults and adolescents (≥12 years of age) with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD) who had an inadequate response to systemic therapy or when use of those therapies was inadvisable. The primary endpoint was achievement of both EASI 90 and WP-NRS 0/1 at Week 16.7 FC08.04 Oral Presentation on Friday, 27 September 2024, 16:30-16:40 Effectiveness of upadacitinib in adults and adolescents with atopic dermatitis: 6-month interim analysis of the real-world multicountry AD-VISE study: An interim analysis of the AD-VISE study evaluating the effectiveness and durability of response to upadacitinib for skin clearance (EASI) and itch resolution (WP-NRS) in real-world settings. Results include 578 adult and adolescent patients with moderate-to-severe AD treated with upadacitinib (15 mg or 30 mg).3 P0683 E-Poster Baseline criteria from a real world non-interventional study with Upadacitinib for the treatment of systemic atopic dermatitis: an analysis based on guideline criteria (UP-TAINED): An interim analysis of the UP-TAINED study including baseline visit data from 351 patients with moderate-to-severe AD treated with upadacitinib in real-world settings in Germany. Results show that patients treated with upadacitinib met German checklist criteria for systemic therapy.4 P0535 E-Poster About Atopic Dermatitis Atopic dermatitis is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory condition characterized by a cycle of intense itching and scratching leading to cracked, scaly, oozing skin.8,9 It affects up to an estimated 10% of adults and 24.6% of adolescents.9-11 Between 20% and 46% of adults with atopic dermatitis have moderate-to-severe disease.12 The range of symptoms poses significant physical, psychological and economic burden on individuals impacted by the disease.9,13 About Measure Up 1 and Measure Up 2 Measure Up 1 and Measure Up 2 are Phase 3, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled studies designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of RINVOQ in adult and adolescent (12 years or older) patients with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis who are candidates for systemic treatment. Patients were randomized to RINVOQ 15 mg, RINVOQ 30 mg or placebo. The co-primary endpoints were the percentage of patients achieving EASI 75 and a validated Investigator's Global Assessment for Atopic Dermatitis (vIGA-AD) score of 0/1 after 16 weeks of treatment. Patients receiving placebo were switched to either RINVOQ 15 mg or RINVOQ 30 mg at week 16.14,15 About RINVOQ® (upadacitinib) Discovered and developed by AbbVie scientists, RINVOQ is a selective and reversible JAK inhibitor that is being studied in several immune-mediated inflammatory diseases. In human cellular assays, RINVOQ preferentially inhibits signaling by JAK1 or JAK1/3 with functional selectivity over cytokine receptors that signal via pairs of JAK2.16 Upadacitinib (RINVOQ) is being studied in Phase 3 clinical trials for alopecia areata, giant cell arteritis, hidradenitis suppurativa, Takayasu arteritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and vitiligo.17-22 EU Indications and Important Safety Information about RINVOQ® (upadacitinib)23 Indications Rheumatoid arthritis RINVOQ is indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in adult patients who have responded inadequately to, or who are intolerant to one or more disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs). RINVOQ may be used as monotherapy or in combination with methotrexate. Psoriatic arthritis RINVOQ is indicated for the treatment of active psoriatic arthritis (PsA) in adult patients who have responded inadequately to, or who are intolerant to one or more DMARDs. RINVOQ may be used as monotherapy or in combination with methotrexate. Axial spondyloarthritis Non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA) RINVOQ is indicated for the treatment of active non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis in adult patients with objective signs of inflammation as indicated by elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) and/or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), who have responded inadequately to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Ankylosing spondylitis (AS, radiographic axial spondyloarthritis) RINVOQ is indicated for the treatment of active ankylosing spondylitis in adult patients who have responded inadequately to conventional therapy. Atopic dermatitis RINVOQ is indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe atopic dermatitis (AD) in adults and adolescents 12 years and older who are candidates for systemic therapy. Ulcerative colitis RINVOQ is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis (UC) who have had an inadequate response, lost response or were intolerant to either conventional therapy or a biologic agent. Crohn's disease RINVOQ is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with moderately to severely active Crohn's disease who have had an inadequate response, lost response or were intolerant to either conventional therapy or a biologic agent. Important Safety Information Contraindications RINVOQ is contraindicated in patients hypersensitive to the active substance or to any of the excipients, in patients with active tuberculosis (TB) or active serious infections, in patients with severe hepatic impairment, and during pregnancy. Special warnings and precautions for use RINVOQ should only be used if no suitable treatment alternatives are available in patients: 65 years of age and older; patients with history of atherosclerotic cardiovascular (CV) disease or other CV risk factors (such as current or past long-time smokers); patients with malignancy risk factors (e.g. current malignancy or history of malignancy) Use in patients 65 years of age and older Considering the increased risk of MACE, malignancies, serious infections, and all-cause mortality in patients ≥65 years of age, as observed in a large randomised study of tofacitinib (another JAK inhibitor), RINVOQ should only be used in these patients if no suitable treatment alternatives are available. In patients ≥65 years of age, there is an increased risk of adverse reactions with RINVOQ 30 mg once daily. Consequently, the recommended dose for long-term use in this patient population is 15 mg once daily. Immunosuppressive medicinal products Use in combination with other potent immunosuppressants is not recommended. Serious infections Serious and sometimes fatal infections have been reported in patients receiving RINVOQ. The most frequent serious infections reported included pneumonia and cellulitis. Cases of bacterial meningitis and sepsis have been reported with RINVOQ. Among opportunistic infections, TB, multidermatomal herpes zoster, oral/esophageal candidiasis, and cryptococcosis have been reported. RINVOQ should not be initiated in patients with an active, serious infection, including localized infections. RINVOQ should be interrupted if a patient develops a serious or opportunistic infection until the infection is controlled. A higher rate of serious infections was observed with RINVOQ 30 mg compared to 15 mg. As there is a higher incidence of infections in the elderly and patients with diabetes in general, caution should be used when treating these populations. In patients ≥65 years of age, RINVOQ should only be used if no suitable treatment alternatives are available. Tuberculosis Patients should be screened for TB before starting RINVOQ. RINVOQ should not be given to patients with active TB. Anti-TB therapy may be appropriate for select patients in consultation with a physician with expertise in the treatment of TB. Patients should be monitored for the development of signs and symptoms of TB. Viral reactivation Viral reactivation, including cases of herpes zoster, was reported in clinical studies. The risk of herpes zoster appears to be higher in Japanese patients treated with RINVOQ. Consider interruption of RINVOQ if the patient develops herpes zoster until the episode resolves. Screening for viral hepatitis and monitoring for reactivation should occur before and during therapy. If hepatitis B virus DNA is detected, a liver specialist should be consulted. Vaccination The use of live, attenuated vaccines during or immediately prior to therapy is not recommended. It is recommended that patients be brought up to date with all immunizations, including prophylactic zoster vaccinations, prior to initiating RINVOQ, in agreement with current immunization guidelines. Malignancy Lymphoma and other malignancies have been reported in patients receiving JAK inhibitors, including RINVOQ. In a large randomised active‑controlled study of tofacitinib (another JAK inhibitor) in RA patients ≥50 years of age with ≥1 additional CV risk factor, a higher rate of malignancies, particularly lung cancer, lymphoma, and non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC), was observed with tofacitinib compared to tumour necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors. A higher rate of malignancies, including NMSC, was observed with RINVOQ 30 mg compared to 15 mg. Periodic skin examination is recommended for all patients, particularly those with risk factors for skin cancer. In patients ≥65 years of age, patients who are current or past long-time smokers, or patients with other malignancy risk factors (e.g., current malignancy or history of malignancy), RINVOQ should only be used if no suitable treatment alternatives are available. Hematological abnormalities Treatment should not be initiated, or should be temporarily interrupted, in patients with hematological abnormalities observed during routine patient management. Gastrointestinal Perforations Events of diverticulitis and gastrointestinal perforations have been reported in clinical trials and from post-marketing sources. RINVOQ should be used with caution in patients who may be at risk for gastrointestinal perforation (e.g., patients with diverticular disease, a history of diverticulitis, or who are taking nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, or opioids. Patients with active Crohn's disease are at increased risk for developing intestinal perforation. Patients presenting with new onset abdominal signs and symptoms should be evaluated promptly for early identification of diverticulitis or gastrointestinal perforation. Major adverse cardiovascular events MACE were observed in clinical studies of RINVOQ. In a large randomised active-controlled study of tofacitinib (another JAK inhibitor) in RA patients ≥50 years of age with ≥1 additional CV risk factor, a higher rate of MACE, defined as CV death, non-fatal myocardial infarction and non-fatal stroke, was observed with tofacitinib compared to TNF inhibitors. Therefore, in patients ≥65 years of age, patients who are current or past long-time smokers, and patients with history of atherosclerotic CV disease or other CV risk factors, RINVOQ should only be used if no suitable treatment alternatives are available. Lipids RINVOQ treatment was associated with dose-dependent increases in lipid parameters, including total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Hepatic transaminase elevations Treatment with RINVOQ was associated with an increased incidence of liver enzyme elevation. Hepatic transaminases must be evaluated at baseline and thereafter according to routine patient management. If alanine transaminase (ALT) or aspartate transaminase (AST) increases are observed and drug-induced liver injury is suspected, RINVOQ should be interrupted until this diagnosis is excluded. Venous thromboembolism Events of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) were observed in clinical trials for RINVOQ. In a large randomised active-controlled study of tofacitinib (another JAK inhibitor) in RA patients ≥50 years of age with ≥1 additional CV risk factor, a dose‑dependent higher rate of VTE including DVT and PE was observed with tofacitinib compared to TNF inhibitors. In patients with CV or malignancy risk factors, RINVOQ should only be used if no suitable treatment alternatives are available. In patients with known VTE risk factors other than CV or malignancy risk factors (e.g. previous VTE, patients undergoing major surgery, immobilisation, use of combined hormonal contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy, and inherited coagulation disorder), RINVOQ should be used with caution. Patients should be re-evaluated periodically to assess for changes in VTE risk. Promptly evaluate patients with signs and symptoms of VTE and discontinue RINVOQ in patients with suspected VTE. Hypersensitivity reactions Serious hypersensitivity reactions such as anaphylaxis and angioedema have been reported in patients receiving RINVOQ. If a clinically significant hypersensitivity reaction occurs, discontinue RINVOQ and institute appropriate therapy. Hypoglycemia in patients treated for diabetes There have been reports of hypoglycemia following initiation of JAK inhibitors, including RINVOQ, in patients receiving medication for diabetes. Dose adjustment of anti-diabetic medication may be necessary in the event that hypoglycemia occurs. Adverse reactions The most commonly reported adverse reactions in RA, PsA, and axSpA clinical trials (≥2% of patients in at least one of the indications) with RINVOQ 15 mg were upper respiratory tract infections, blood creatine phosphokinase (CPK) increased, ALT increased, bronchitis, nausea, neutropenia, cough, AST increased, and hypercholesterolemia. Overall, the safety profile observed in patients with psoriatic arthritis or active axial spondyloarthritis treated with RINVOQ 15 mg was consistent with the safety profile observed in patients with RA. The most commonly reported adverse reactions in AD trials (≥2% of patients) with RINVOQ 15 mg or 30 mg were upper respiratory tract infection, acne, herpes simplex, headache, blood CPK increased, cough, folliculitis, abdominal pain, nausea, neutropenia, pyrexia, and influenza. Dose dependent increased risks of infection and herpes zoster were observed with RINVOQ. The safety profile for RINVOQ 15 mg in adolescents was similar to that in adults. The safety and efficacy of the 30 mg dose in adolescents are still being investigated. The most commonly reported adverse reactions in the UC and CD trials (≥3% of patients) with RINVOQ 45 mg, 30 mg or 15 mg were upper respiratory tract infection, pyrexia, blood CPK increased, anemia, headache, acne, herpes zoster, neutropenia, rash, pneumonia, hypercholesterolemia, bronchitis, AST increased, fatigue, folliculitis, ALT increased, herpes simplex, and influenza. The overall safety profile observed in patients with UC was generally consistent with that observed in patients with RA. Overall, the safety profile observed in patients with CD treated with RINVOQ was consistent with the known safety profile for RINVOQ. The most common serious adverse reactions were serious infections. The safety profile of RINVOQ with long-term treatment was generally similar to the safety profile during the placebo-controlled period across indications. This is not a complete summary of all safety information. See RINVOQ full Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) at Globally, prescribing information varies; refer to the individual country product label for complete information. About AbbVie AbbVie's mission is to discover and deliver innovative medicines and solutions that solve serious health issues today and address the medical challenges of tomorrow. We strive to have a remarkable impact on people's lives across several key therapeutic areas – immunology, oncology, neuroscience, and eye care – and products and services in our Allergan Aesthetics portfolio. For more information about AbbVie, please visit us at . Follow @abbvie on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube. Forward-Looking Statements Some statements in this news release are, or may be considered, forward-looking statements for purposes of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "project" and similar expressions and uses of future or conditional verbs, generally identify forward-looking statements. AbbVie cautions that these forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, challenges to intellectual property, competition from other products, difficulties inherent in the research and development process, adverse litigation or government action, and changes to laws and regulations applicable to our industry. Additional information about the economic, competitive, governmental, technological and other factors that may affect AbbVie's operations is set forth in Item 1A, "Risk Factors," of AbbVie's 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K, which has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, as updated by its subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. AbbVie undertakes no obligation, and specifically declines, to release publicly any revisions to forward-looking statements as a result of subsequent events or developments, except as required by law. References: Eyerich K, Mendes-Bastos P, Holzer G, et al. Efficacy of upadacitinib in treating atopic dermatitis in the head and neck regions. Poster presented at: European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology Congress; September 25-28, 2024; Amsterdam, the Netherlands. ePoster P0734. Silverberg JI, et al. Patient burden and quality of life in atopic dermatitis in US adults: a population-based cross-sectional study. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2018;121(3):340-C347. doi:10.1016/j.anai.2018.07.006 Gooderham MJ, Pereyra-Rodriguez JJ, Sinclair R, et al. Effectiveness of upadacitinib in adults and adolescents with atopic dermatitis: 6-month interim analysis of the real-world multicountry AD-VISE study. Poster presented at: European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology Congress; September 25-28, 2024; Amsterdam, the Netherlands. ePoster P0683. Weidinger S, Pinter A, Weyergraf T, et al. Baseline criteria from a real world non-interventional study with upadacitinib for the treatment of systemic atopic dermatitis: an analysis based on guideline criteria. Poster presented at: European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology Congress; September 25-28, 2024; Amsterdam, the Netherlands. ePoster P0535. Wollenberg A, Gooderham M, Katoh N, et al. Patient-reported burden in adults with atopic dermatitis: an international qualitative study. Arch Dermatol Res. 2024;316(7):380. doi:10.1007/s00403-024-03130-w Hang L, Aroman MS, Taieb C, et al. The impact of eczema involving visible areas of the skin on patients' quality of life. JEADV Clin Pract. 2022;1:105-110. doi:10.1002/jvc2.20 Silverberg JI, Bunick C, Hong HC, et al. Efficacy and safety of upadacitinib vs dupilumab in adults and adolescents with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis: results of an open-label, efficacy assessor-blinded head-to-head phase 3b/4 study (Level Up). Paper presented at: European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology Congress; September 25-28, 2024; Amsterdam, the Netherlands. FC08.04. Nutten S. Atopic dermatitis: global epidemiology and risk factors. Ann Nutr Metab. 2015;66(suppl 1):8-16. doi:10.1159/000370220 Weidinger S, Beck LA, Bieber T, Kabashima K, Irvine A. Atopic dermatitis. Nat Rev Dis Primers. 2018;4(1):1. doi:10.1038/s41572-018-0001-z Simpson EL, Paller AS, Siegfried EC, et al. Efficacy and safety of dupilumab in adolescents with uncontrolled moderate to severe atopic dermatitis: a phase 3 randomized clinical trial. JAMA Dermatol. 2020;156(1):44-56. doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2019.3336 Blauvelt A, Guttman-Yassky E, Paller AS, et al. Long-term efficacy and safety of dupilumab in adolescents with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis: results through week 52 from a phase III open-label extension trial (LIBERTY AD PED-OLE). Am J Clin Dermatol. 2022;23(3):365-383. doi:10.1007/s40257-022-00683-2 Shrestha S, Miao R, Wang L, Chao J, Yuce H, Wei W. Burden of atopic dermatitis in the United States: analysis of healthcare claims data in the commercial, Medicare, and Medi-Cal databases. Adv Ther. 2017;34(8):1989-2006. doi:10.1007/s12325-017-0582-z European Federation of Allergy and Airways Diseases Patients' Associations. Atopic eczema: itching for life report—quality of life and costs for people with severe atopic eczema in Europe. Published July 2018. Accessed August 28, 2023. Evaluation of upadacitinib in adolescent and adult patients with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis (eczema) (Measure Up 1). ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03569293. Updated March 5, 2024. Accessed April 9, 2024. A study to evaluate upadacitinib in adolescents and adults with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis (Measure Up 2). ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03607422. Updated March 5, 2024. Accessed April 9, 2024. RINVOQ. Summary of product characteristics. AbbVie. Accessed September 19, 2024. A study to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of upadacitinib tablets in adult and adolescent participants with severe alopecia areata (Up-AA). ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT06012240. Updated September 19, 2024. Accessed September 19, 2024. A study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of upadacitinib in participants with giant cell arteritis (SELECT-GCA). ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03725202. Updated February 23, 2024. Accessed September 19, 2024. A study to assess change in disease activity and adverse events of oral upadacitinib in adult and adolescent participants with moderate to severe hidradenitis suppurativa who have failed anti-TNF therapy (Step-Up HS). ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT05889182. Updated August 29, 2024. Accessed April 9, 2024. A study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of upadacitinib in participants with Takayasu arteritis (TAK) (SELECT-TAK). ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04161898. Updated March 22, 2024. Accessed April 9, 2024. Program to assess adverse events and change in disease activity of oral upadacitinib in adult participants with moderate to severe systemic lupus erythematosus (SELECT-SLE). ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT05843643. Updated September 19, 2024. Accessed April 9, 2024. A study to assess adverse events and effectiveness of upadacitinib oral tablets in adult and adolescent participants with vitiligo (Viti-Up). ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT06118411. Updated March 28, 2024. Accessed April 9, 2024. RINVOQ [Package Insert]. North Chicago, IL: AbbVie Inc.; 2024. SOURCE AbbVie WANT YOUR COMPANY'S NEWS FEATURED ON PRNEWSWIRE.COM? 440k+ Newsrooms & Influencers 9k+ Digital Media Outlets 270k+ Journalists Opted In GET STARTED

Submissions are supported by the Phase 3 SELECT-GCA study demonstrating upadacitinib 15 mg with a 26-week steroid taper regimen achieved the primary endpoint of sustained remission from week 12 through week 521 The safety profile of upadacitinib in patients with GCA was generally consistent with that in approved indications1 NORTH CHICAGO, Ill., July 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- AbbVie (NYSE: ABBV) today announced that it has submitted applications for a new indication to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and European Medicines Agency (EMA) for upadacitinib (RINVOQ®; 15 mg, once daily) for the treatment of adult patients with giant cell arteritis (GCA). GCA is an autoimmune disease of medium and large arteries and can cause headache, jaw pain, and changes in vision, including sudden and permanent loss of vision.3,4 "Currently, there are few approved treatment options for patients with GCA. Most patients are managed with glucocorticoids, and many are unable to discontinue them without the recurrence of GCA symptoms," stated Roopal Thakkar, M.D., executive vice president, research and development, and chief scientific officer, AbbVie. "We recognize the importance of maintaining remission and limiting the use of glucocorticoids in GCA." The regulatory submissions to the FDA and EMA are supported by previously announced results from the SELECT-GCA Phase 3 study evaluating the safety and efficacy of upadacitinib in patients with GCA. About SELECT-GCA SELECT-GCA (M16-852) is a Phase 3, multicenter, randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled study designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of upadacitinib in 428 patients with GCA. The study consists of two periods. The first period evaluated the efficacy of upadacitinib in combination with a 26-week corticosteroid taper regimen compared to placebo in combination with a 52-week corticosteroid taper regimen. In addition, the first period assessed the safety and tolerability of upadacitinib in these patients. The second period is ongoing to evaluate the safety and efficacy of continuing versus withdrawing upadacitinib in maintaining remission in participants who achieved sustained remission in the first period.1 For more information regarding this study, please visit ClinicalTrials.gov (Identifier NCT03725202). About Giant Cell Arteritis Giant cell arteritis (GCA), also known as temporal arteritis, is an autoimmune disease of medium and large arteries, characterized by granulomatous inflammation of the three-layered vessel wall, which affects temporal and other cranial arteries as well as the aorta and other large arteries.2,4 GCA can cause headache, jaw pain, and changes in or loss of vision, including sudden and permanent loss of vision. Caucasian women over the age of 50 – most commonly between the ages of 70 and 80 years – have the highest risk of developing giant cell arteritis. Although women are more likely than men to develop GCA, research suggests that men are more likely to have ocular manifestations with their disease.5 About Upadacitinib (RINVOQ®) Discovered and developed by AbbVie scientists, RINVOQ is a JAK inhibitor that is being studied in several immune-mediated inflammatory diseases.6,7 Based on enzymatic and cellular assays, RINVOQ demonstrated greater inhibitory potency for JAK-1 vs JAK-2, JAK-3, and TYK-2.6 The relevance of inhibition of specific JAK enzymes to therapeutic effectiveness and safety is not currently known. Upadacitinib (RINVOQ) is being studied in Phase 3 clinical trials for alopecia areata, giant cell arteritis, hidradenitis suppurativa, Takayasu arteritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and vitiligo.8-12 The use of upadacitinib in giant cell arteritis is not approved and its safety and efficacy have not been evaluated by regulatory authorities. RINVOQ ® (upadacitinib) U.S. Uses and Important Safety Information RINVOQ is a prescription medicine used to treat: Adults with moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA) when 1 or more medicines called tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers have been used, and did not work well or could not be tolerated. Adults with active psoriatic arthritis (PsA) when 1 or more medicines called TNF blockers have been used, and did not work well or could not be tolerated. Adults with active ankylosing spondylitis (AS) when 1 or more medicines called TNF blockers have been used, and did not work well or could not be tolerated. Adults with active non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA) with objective signs of inflammation when a TNF blocker medicine has been used, and did not work well or could not be tolerated. Adults with moderate to severe ulcerative colitis (UC) when 1 or more medicines called TNF blockers have been used, and did not work well or could not be tolerated. Adults with moderate to severe Crohn's disease (CD) when 1 or more medicines called TNF blockers have been used, and did not work well or could not be tolerated. It is not known if RINVOQ is safe and effective in children with ankylosing spondylitis, non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis, ulcerative colitis, or Crohn's disease. Adults and children 12 years of age and older with moderate to severe eczema (atopic dermatitis [AD]) that did not respond to previous treatment and their eczema is not well controlled with other pills or injections, including biologic medicines, or the use of other pills or injections is not recommended. It is not known if RINVOQ is safe and effective in children under 12 years of age with atopic dermatitis. It is not known if RINVOQ LQ is safe and effective in children with atopic dermatitis. RINVOQ/RINVOQ LQ is a prescription medicine used to treat: Children 2 years of age and older with active polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (pJIA) when 1 or more medicines called TNF blockers have been used, and did not work well or could not be tolerated. Children 2 to less than 18 years of age with active psoriatic arthritis (PsA) when 1 or more medicines called TNF blockers have been used, and did not work well or could not be tolerated. It is not known if RINVOQ/RINVOQ LQ is safe and effective in children under 2 years of age with polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis or psoriatic arthritis. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION What is the most important information I should know about RINVOQ? RINVOQ may cause serious side effects, including: Serious infections. RINVOQ can lower your ability to fight infections. Serious infections have happened while taking RINVOQ, including tuberculosis (TB) and infections caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses that can spread throughout the body. Some people have died from these infections. Your healthcare provider (HCP) should test you for TB before starting RINVOQ and check you closely for signs and symptoms of TB during treatment with RINVOQ. You should not start taking RINVOQ if you have any kind of infection unless your HCP tells you it is okay. If you get a serious infection, your HCP may stop your treatment until your infection is controlled. You may be at higher risk of developing shingles (herpes zoster). Increased risk of death in people 50 years and older who have at least 1 heart disease (cardiovascular) risk factor. Cancer and immune system problems. RINVOQ may increase your risk of certain cancers. Lymphoma and other cancers, including skin cancers, can happen. Current or past smokers are at higher risk of certain cancers, including lymphoma and lung cancer. Follow your HCP's advice about having your skin checked for skin cancer during treatment with RINVOQ. Limit the amount of time you spend in sunlight. Wear protective clothing when you are in the sun and use sunscreen. Increased risk of major cardiovascular (CV) events, such as heart attack, stroke, or death, in people 50 years and older who have at least 1 heart disease (CV) risk factor, especially if you are a current or past smoker. Blood clots. Blood clots in the veins of the legs or lungs and arteries can happen with RINVOQ. This may be life-threatening and cause death. Blood clots in the veins of the legs and lungs have happened more often in people who are 50 years and older and with at least 1 heart disease (CV) risk factor. Allergic reactions. Symptoms such as rash (hives), trouble breathing, feeling faint or dizzy, or swelling of your lips, tongue, or throat, that may mean you are having an allergic reaction have been seen in people taking RINVOQ. Some of these reactions were serious. If any of these symptoms occur during treatment with RINVOQ, stop taking RINVOQ and get emergency medical help right away. Tears in the stomach or intestines. This happens most often in people who take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroids. Get medical help right away if you get stomach-area pain, fever, chills, nausea, or vomiting. Changes in certain laboratory tests. Your HCP should do blood tests before you start taking RINVOQ and while you take it. Your HCP may stop your RINVOQ treatment for a period of time if needed because of changes in these blood test results. Do not take RINVOQ if you are allergic to upadacitinib or any of the ingredients in RINVOQ. See the Medication Guide or Consumer Brief Summary for a complete list of ingredients. What should I tell my HCP BEFORE starting RINVOQ? Tell your HCP if you: Are being treated for an infection, have an infection that won't go away or keeps coming back, or have symptoms of an infection, such as: Have TB or have been in close contact with someone with TB. Are a current or past smoker. Have had a heart attack, other heart problems, or stroke. Have or have had any type of cancer, hepatitis B or C, shingles (herpes zoster), blood clots in the veins of your legs or lungs, diverticulitis (inflammation in parts of the large intestine), or ulcers in your stomach or intestines. Have other medical conditions, including liver problems, low blood cell counts, diabetes, chronic lung disease, HIV, or a weak immune system. Live, have lived, or have traveled to parts of the country, such as the Ohio and Mississippi River valleys and the Southwest, that increase your risk of getting certain kinds of fungal infections. If you are unsure if you've been to these types of areas, ask your HCP. Have recently received or are scheduled to receive a vaccine. People who take RINVOQ should not receive live vaccines. Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Based on animal studies, RINVOQ may harm your unborn baby. Your HCP will check whether or not you are pregnant before you start RINVOQ. You should use effective birth control (contraception) to avoid becoming pregnant during treatment with RINVOQ and for 4 weeks after your last dose. There is a pregnancy surveillance program for RINVOQ. The purpose of the program is to collect information about the health of you and your baby. If you become pregnant while taking RINVOQ, you are encouraged to report the pregnancy by calling 1-800-633-9110. Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. RINVOQ may pass into your breast milk. Do not breastfeed during treatment with RINVOQ and for 6 days after your last dose. Tell your HCP about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. RINVOQ and other medicines may affect each other, causing side effects. Especially tell your HCP if you take: Medicines for fungal or bacterial infections Rifampicin or phenytoin Medicines that affect your immune system If you are not sure if you are taking any of these medicines, ask your HCP or pharmacist. What should I avoid while taking RINVOQ? Avoid food or drink containing grapefruit during treatment with RINVOQ as it may increase the risk of side effects. What should I do or tell my HCP AFTER starting RINVOQ? Tell your HCP right away if you have any symptoms of an infection. RINVOQ can make you more likely to get infections or make any infections you have worse. Get emergency help right away if you have any symptoms of a heart attack or stroke while taking RINVOQ, including: Discomfort in the center of your chest that lasts for more than a few minutes or that goes away and comes back Severe tightness, pain, pressure, or heaviness in your chest, throat, neck, or jaw Pain or discomfort in your arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort Breaking out in a cold sweat Nausea or vomiting Feeling lightheaded Weakness in one part or on one side of your body Slurred speech Tell your HCP right away if you have any signs or symptoms of blood clots during treatment with RINVOQ, including: Tell your HCP right away if you have a fever or stomach-area pain that does not go away, and a change in your bowel habits. What are other possible side effects of RINVOQ? Common side effects include upper respiratory tract infections (common cold, sinus infections), shingles (herpes zoster), herpes simplex virus infections (including cold sores), bronchitis, nausea, cough, fever, acne, headache, increased blood levels of creatine phosphokinase, allergic reactions, inflammation of hair follicles, stomach-area (abdominal) pain, increased weight, flu, tiredness, lower number of certain types of white blood cells (neutropenia, lymphopenia, leukopenia), muscle pain, flu-like illness, rash, increased blood cholesterol levels, increased liver enzyme levels, pneumonia, low number of red blood cells (anemia), and infection of the stomach and intestine (gastroenteritis). A separation or tear to the lining of the back part of the eye (retinal detachment) has happened in people with atopic dermatitis treated with RINVOQ. Call your HCP right away if you have any sudden changes in your vision during treatment with RINVOQ. Some people taking RINVOQ may see medicine residue (a whole tablet or tablet pieces) in their stool. If this happens, call your HCP. These are not all the possible side effects of RINVOQ. How should I take RINVOQ/RINVOQ LQ? RINVOQ is taken once a day with or without food. Do not split, crush, or chew the tablet. Take RINVOQ exactly as your HCP tells you to use it. RINVOQ is available in 15 mg, 30 mg, and 45 mg extended-release tablets. RINVOQ LQ is taken twice a day with or without food. RINVOQ LQ is available in a 1 mg/mL oral solution. RINVOQ LQ is not the same as RINVOQ tablets. Do not switch between RINVOQ LQ and RINVOQ tablets unless the change has been made by your HCP. Unless otherwise stated, "RINVOQ" in the IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION refers to RINVOQ and RINVOQ LQ. This is the most important information to know about RINVOQ. For more information, talk to your HCP. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit or call 1-800-FDA-1088 . If you are having difficulty paying for your medicine, AbbVie may be able to help. Visit AbbVie.com/PatientAccessSupport to learn more. Please click here for the Full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide. Globally, prescribing information varies; refer to the individual country product label for complete information. About AbbVie in Rheumatology For more than 20 years, AbbVie has been dedicated to improving care for people living with rheumatic diseases. Anchored by a longstanding commitment to discovering and delivering transformative therapies, we pursue cutting-edge science that improves our understanding of promising new pathways and targets, ultimately helping more people living with rheumatic diseases reach their treatment goals. For more information, visit AbbVie in rheumatology. About AbbVie AbbVie's mission is to discover and deliver innovative medicines and solutions that solve serious health issues today and address the medical challenges of tomorrow. We strive to have a remarkable impact on people's lives across several key therapeutic areas – immunology, oncology, neuroscience, and eye care – and products and services in our Allergan Aesthetics portfolio. For more information about AbbVie, please visit us at . Follow @abbvie on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube. Forward-Looking Statements Some statements in this news release are, or may be considered, forward-looking statements for purposes of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "project" and similar expressions and uses of future or conditional verbs, generally identify forward-looking statements. AbbVie cautions that these forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, challenges to intellectual property, competition from other products, difficulties inherent in the research and development process, adverse litigation or government action, and changes to laws and regulations applicable to our industry. Additional information about the economic, competitive, governmental, technological and other factors that may affect AbbVie's operations is set forth in Item 1A, "Risk Factors," of AbbVie's 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K, which has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, as updated by its subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. AbbVie undertakes no obligation, and specifically declines, to release publicly any revisions to forward-looking statements as a result of subsequent events or developments, except as required by law. REFERENCES AbbVie. Data on file ABVRRTI78418. Ameer MA, Peterfy RJ, Khazaeni B. Giant cell arteritis. Updated August 8, 2023. Weyand CM, Goronzy JJ. Immunology of Giant Cell Arteritis. Circ Res. 2023;132(2):238-250. doi:10.1161/CIRCRESAHA.122.322128 Giant Cell Arteritis. Arthritis Foundation. Available at: . Accessed April 11, 2024. RINVOQ [Package Insert]. North Chicago, IL: AbbVie Inc.; 2024. Pipeline – Our Science | AbbVie. 2023. Available at: . Accessed April 17, 2024. A Study to Evaluate the Safety and Efficacy of Upadacitinib in Participants with Giant Cell Arteritis (SELECT-GCA). ClinicalTrials.gov. Available at: . Accessed April 9, 2024 A Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Upadacitinib in Participants with Takaysu Arteritis (TAK) (SELECT-TAK). ClinicalTrials.gov. Available at: . Accessed April 9, 2024. Program to Assess Adverse Events and Change in Disease Activity of Oral Upadacitinib in Adult Participants With Moderate to Severe Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SELECT-SLE). ClinicalTrials.gov. Available at: . Accessed April 9, 2024. A Study to Assess Change in Disease Activity and Adverse Events of Oral Upadacitinib in Adult and Adolescent Participants With Moderate to Severe Hidradenitis Suppurativa Who Have Failed Anti-TNF Therapy (Step-Up HS). ClinicalTrials.gov. Available at: . Accessed April 9, 2024. A Study To Assess Adverse Events and Effectiveness of Upadacitinib Oral Tablets in Adult and Adolescent Participants With Vitiligo (Viti-Up). ClinicalTrials.gov. Available at: . Accessed April 9, 2024. A Study to Evaluate the Safety and Effectiveness of Upadacitinib Tablets in Adult and Adolescent Participants With Severe Alopecia Areata (Up-AA). ClinicalTrials.gov. Available at: . Accessed April 9, 2024. SOURCE AbbVie

AbbVie has submitted regulatory applications to the FDA and the European Medicines Agency for Rinvoq (upadacitinib) to treat adult patients with giant cell arteritis (GCA). The submissions, announced Friday, aim to tack on another indication for the oral JAK inhibitor, which is already approved for several other immune-mediated inflammatory conditions.The applications are supported by the Phase III SELECT-GCA study that tested Rinvoq in combination with a 26-week steroid taper regimen in 428 patients with GCA. Results released in April showed that 46% of patients receiving Rinvoq achieved the primary endpoint of sustained remission from weeks 12 through 52, compared to 29% of those given placebo with a 52-week corticosteroid taper regimen.Key secondary endpoints were also met, including a higher rate of sustained complete remission and a lower percentage of disease flares in the Rinvoq group.Roopal Thakkar, who was recently promoted to the role of chief scientific officer at AbbVie, noted there are few approved treatment options for GCA and most patients are currently managed with glucocorticoids. "Many are unable to discontinue them without the recurrence of GCA symptoms," he said.The condition can cause headache, jaw pain and changes in vision, including sudden and permanent vision loss. If approved, Thakkar indicated that Rinvoq would offer a new treatment option that could allow for reduced glucocorticoid use while maintaining disease control.Rinvoq, which brought in just under $4 billion in sales last year, along with IL-23 inhibitor Skyrizi (risankizumab), are seen as key growth drivers of AbbVie's immunology portfolio as biosimilar entrants eat away market share — through more slowly than expected — from its blockbuster treatment Humira (adalimumab).Rinvoq is currently approved for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, among others. Aside from GCA, it is also in Phase III testing for alopecia areata, hidradenitis suppurativa, Takayasu arteritis, lupus and vitiligo.