The role and efficacy of satlizumab (Anshiping)

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) is an autoimmune disease in which recurrent attacks of the body's own immune system can lead to significant morbidity and disability. Immunoglobulin G antibodies targeting the aquaporin-4 (AQ P4-IgG) water channel in cells of the central nervous system can be detected in most patients with NMOSD. Satralizumab is a drug designed to inhibit the production of autoantibodies by blocking the interleukin-6 (IL-6) receptor.

In clinical trials, satelizumab significantly reduced the rate of recurrence of immune attacks when used as an add-on to standard immunosuppressive therapy or alone compared with placebo. Satrolizumab was well tolerated in the SAkuraSky and SAkuraStar trials, and infections (such as nasopharyngitis, upper respiratory tract infection) were the most common related adverse events. Satclizumab is the first IL-6 receptor blocker approved for patients with aquaporin 4-IgG seropositive NMOSD and the only subcutaneous targeted drug approved for NMOSD.

The original drug satlizumab has been launched in China, sold under the brand name Anshiping, and is included in medical insurance. Only patients who meet the indications can be reimbursed. The specification is120mg (1ml) per box The price may be more than RMB 10,000, which is still relatively expensive; the price of each box of the original drug Saterizumab sold overseas is more than $10,000 (the price may fluctuate due to the exchange rate). The ingredients of the original drug sold domestically and abroad are basically the same. There are currently no generic versions of satlizumab available on the market.