In a recent phase 3 trial of a new lupus drug, dapirolizumab pegol (DZP), nearly half of participants experienced significant improvement in their lupus symptoms. A first-of-its-kind treatment for lupus, DZP is a CD40L inhibitor that works by disrupting the overactive immune response that causes lupus symptoms. The treatment is administered as an intravenous (IV) infusion.

“Treatment with dapirolizumab pegol, a novel CD40L inhibitor, resulted in improvement in disease activity and corticosteroid tapering in patients with SLE,” said Dr. Megan Clowse of Duke University’s rheumatology and immunology division at ACR Convergence 2024. “We think it may represent a novel treatment for lupus.”

The 48-week study enrolled 321 individuals with moderate to severe systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) — the most common type of lupus. Participants continued standard treatments, such as antimalarials and corticosteroids, alongside DZP. By the study’s end, 49.5 percent of participants who received DZP achieved significant symptom improvement, compared to 34.6 percent in the placebo group. Additionally, participants treated with DZP experienced higher rates of corticosteroid reduction, fewer severe disease flares, and a safety profile similar to placebo​​.

A New Approach to Lupus Treatment

Lupus treatments include corticosteroids, antimalarials, immunosuppressants, and biologics like belimumab and anifrolumab, which target inflammation or specific immune pathways. While effective, these options can have limitations, such as significant side effects or partial symptom control.

Dapirolizumab pegol works in a different way by blocking CD40L, a protein that helps activate T cells and B cells in the immune system. This approach could offer better disease control with fewer side effects than current treatments. However, this drug has yet to undergo review and approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Additionally, every person is different, and a treatment that works for one individual may not work for another.

If you’re managing lupus, it’s important to regularly discuss your treatment plan with your healthcare provider. That way, you can make sure your treatment aligns with your current needs and you can discuss any concerns you may have about effectiveness or side effects.

Learn more about current and future treatments for lupus.

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