Mavenclad® is a revolutionary oral treatment designed to combat multiple sclerosis (MS) with proven efficacy over a period of 96 weeks. With just 10 days of treatment per year for 2 years, Mavenclad® offers a convenient and effective solution for patients. In this article, we will explore the key aspects of Mavenclad®, including its dosage, administration, mechanism of action, comparison with other MS treatments, potential side effects, packaging details, and cost.
Dosage and Administration
The dosage of Mavenclad® is tailored to the individual’s body weight. The recommended cumulative dosage is 3.5 mg/kg, divided into two yearly treatment courses (1.75 mg/kg per treatment course). Each treatment course consists of two treatment cycles.
For instance, if a person weighs 50 kilograms, the total dosage over the two years would be 175 mg, divided into two treatment courses of 87.5 mg each. During each treatment cycle, the person would take 4 or 5 tablets (depending on their exact weight) to achieve the prescribed dosage. The first treatment cycle can be initiated at any time, while the second treatment cycle should begin 23-27 days after completing the first cycle.
Mechanism of Action
Mavenclad® (cladribine) acts by reducing the number of specific white blood cells, known as lymphocytes, which are involved in the inflammation and nerve damage associated with MS. By decreasing the number of these cells, Mavenclad® helps to alleviate MS symptoms and reduce the frequency and severity of relapses.
Comparison with Other MS Treatments
A study comparing the effectiveness of cladribine (Mavenclad®) with other approved drugs for relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) demonstrated that cladribine resulted in a significantly lower annualized relapse rate (ARR) compared to interferon, glatiramer acetate, and dimethyl fumarate. It exhibited a similar ARR to fingolimod and a higher ARR than natalizumab.
Side Effects
While using Mavenclad®, patients may experience some common side effects, including upper respiratory infections, headaches, decreased levels of lymphocytes, nausea, and back pain. It’s important to consult with a doctor if any side effects are experienced.
Packaging
Mavenclad® is available in the form of 10 mg tablets. The number of tablets in each pack varies based on the patient’s body weight and the required number of tablets for each treatment cycle.
Cost
The cost of Mavenclad® oral tablets (10 mg) in the USA is approximately $39,863 for a supply of 4 tablets, which may vary depending on the pharmacy.
Conclusion
Mavenclad® offers a breakthrough in the treatment of multiple sclerosis, providing a short-course oral option with proven efficacy. Its convenient dosage regimen, mechanism of action, and comparison with other treatments make it a valuable choice for patients with relapsing forms of MS. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and to discuss any potential side effects or concerns related to Mavenclad®.
ATC Code: Mavenclad® is classified under the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) Classification System with the code L04AA40. This code indicates that Mavenclad® belongs to the group of selective immunosuppressants.