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RecruitingTherapeutic confirmatory (Phase III)Interventional

A Phase 3, Multicenter, Open-Label Extension Study of Zilucoplan in Subjects with Generalized Myasthenia Gravis

Generalised myasthenia gravis is a long-term condition that causes muscles to tire quickly and become weak. This can make everyday activities like walking, chewing, and speaking very tiring. This clinical trial is studying an injection called zilucoplan (brand name Zilbrysq) to see how well it works and how safe it is over a longer period. This is an 'open-label' study, which means there is no dummy drug (placebo). Everyone who takes part receives the active medicine using a pre-filled syringe. Doctors will track any side effects to make sure the medicine is safe. They will also test muscle strength and ask participants how the treatment affects their daily living and overall quality of life. The trial is open to adults aged 18 and older who have generalised myasthenia gravis.

At a glance

Status
Recruiting
Phase
Therapeutic confirmatory (Phase III)
Sponsor
UCB Biopharma
Enrolment target
37
Start
25 Jul 2024

What is this study about?

Generalised myasthenia gravis is a condition where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the points where nerves connect to muscles. When these signals cannot get through properly, muscles become weak and tire very fast. Simple daily activities like smiling, lifting your arms, climbing stairs, or swallowing can become difficult and exhausting.

This trial is looking at a medicine called zilucoplan (brand name Zilbrysq). It works by blocking a specific part of the immune system that attacks the muscles. By calming this attack, doctors hope the medicine can help restore muscle strength and make everyday tasks easier. The medicine is given as an injection under the skin using a pre-filled syringe.

This is an 'open-label extension' study. In clinical trials, 'open-label' means that both you and your doctor know you are receiving the real treatment—no one receives a dummy drug (placebo). An 'extension' means the trial follows on from earlier studies to see how the medicine performs over a longer time. Researchers want to be certain that the treatment remains safe and continues to improve patients' quality of life.

Key takeaways

  • Tests the long-term safety and benefits of zilucoplan (Zilbrysq) injections.
  • Designed for adults aged 18 and over with generalised myasthenia gravis.
  • This is an open-label trial, so there is no dummy drug (placebo).
  • Focuses on improving muscle strength and making daily tasks easier.
  • Participation is entirely voluntary and you can leave at any time.

Who may be eligible?

This study is for adults aged 18 and over who have been diagnosed with generalised myasthenia gravis. Both men and women may be able to join.

Because this is an extension study, it is generally intended for people who have already taken part in an earlier study of zilucoplan. Your study doctor will check if you meet all the health criteria to take part safely.

You might not be able to join if you have certain other serious illnesses, active infections, or if taking the study medicine is not considered safe for you. Your doctor will carefully review your medical history with you.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

  1. I am aged 18 or older.
  2. I have a confirmed diagnosis of generalised myasthenia gravis.
  3. I have taken part in a qualifying earlier study for this medicine, or my doctor says I am eligible.
  4. I am able and willing to attend regular hospital appointments.
  5. I am comfortable giving myself an injection under the skin (or have a carer who can help).
Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you take part, you will be given the study medicine, zilucoplan, as an injection under the skin. You or a carer will be shown how to use the pre-filled syringes at home. The exact dose you receive depends on your body weight.

You will need to attend regular clinic appointments so the medical team can check your health. During these visits, doctors will check your blood pressure, take blood samples, and ask about any side effects. They will also carry out simple physical tests to measure your muscle strength and ask you to fill in questionnaires about your daily life. A key check on your progress happens after 12 weeks of treatment, and your team will let you know how long your total study visits will continue.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part may help improve your muscle strength, relieve your symptoms, and make everyday tasks easier. However, there are also potential risks. Like all medicines, zilucoplan can cause side effects. Because it dampens part of your immune system, there could be a higher risk of infections, as well as mild redness or bruising where you inject the medicine. Your study team will watch you closely to keep you safe. Taking part is completely your choice, and you can leave the study at any time without giving a reason and without affecting your normal NHS care.

Locations (4)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.
  • —
    Unverified
    Norway
  • —
    Unverified
    Poland
  • —
    Unverified
    Spain
  • —
    Unverified
    Italy

Common questions

Will I receive a dummy drug (placebo)?

No. This is an open-label study, meaning every person who takes part receives the real study medicine.

How do I take the medicine?

The medicine is injected under the skin using a pre-filled syringe. The clinic staff will train you or a carer so you can do this comfortably at home.

Does it cost anything to take part?

No. The study medicine and all trial-related tests are provided free of charge, and travel expenses to hospital visits are often reimbursed.

Can I leave the study if I change my mind?

Yes. You can leave the study at any time, for any reason. Your regular medical care will not be affected in any way.

How often will I need to see the doctor?

You will need to attend regular hospital visits, particularly in the first few months, so the team can monitor your safety and symptoms.

How to find out more

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.

Interested in taking part?

Register your interest

Share your details and the research team for "A Phase 3, Multicenter, Open-Label Extension Study of Ziluco…" will contact you if you may be eligible. Always speak to your GP before agreeing to take part.

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