Tofersen

What it is and how it works

12.1. Mechanism of Action Tofersen is an antisense oligonucleotide that causes degradation of SOD1 mRNA through binding to SOD1 mRNA, which results in a reduction of SOD1 protein synthesis.

Indications

is indicated for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in adults who have a mutation in the superoxide dismutase 1 ( SOD1 ) gene. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on reduction in plasma neurofilament light chain (NfL) observed in patients treated with QALSODY . Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification of clinical benefit in confirmatory trial(s). QALSODY is an antisense oligonucleotide indicated for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in adults who have a mutation in the superoxide dismutase 1 ( SOD1 ) gene. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on reduction in plasma neurofilament light chain observed in patients treated with QALSODY. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification of clinical benefit in confirmatory trial(s).

Dosage and administration (summary)

is administered intrathecally Dosing Information Recommended dose: 100 milligrams (15 mL) per administration Initiate QALSODY treatment with 3 loading doses administered at 14day intervals. A maintenance dose should be administered once every 28 days thereafter. Preparation and Administration Instructions Allow to warm to room temperature prior to administration Administer within 4 hours of removal from vial Prior to administration, remove approximately 10 mL of cerebrospinal fluid Administer as an intrathecal bolus injection over 1 to 3 minutes 2.1.

Contraindications

None. None

Warnings and precautions

Myelitis and/ or Radiculitis: Serious events of myelitis and radiculitis have been reported. Monitor for symptoms; diagnostic workup and treatment should be initiated according to the standard of care. Papilledema and Elevated Intracranial Pressure: Serious events of papilledema and elevated intracranial pressure have been reported. Monitor for symptoms; diagnostic workup and treatment should be initiated according to standard of care. Aseptic Meningitis: Serious events of aseptic meningitis have been reported. Monitor for symptoms.

Pregnancy

8.1. Pregnancy Risk Summary There are no adequate data on developmental risks associated with the use of QALSODY in pregnant women to evaluate for a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage, or other adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. In the U.S.

Storage and supply

16.2. Storage and Handling Store refrigerated between 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) in the original carton to protect from light. Do not freeze. If no refrigeration is available, QALSODY may be stored in its original carton, protected from light at or below 30°C (86°F) for up to 14 days.

Source: Tofersen (Qalsody) — US FDA prescribing information, 2024-11-13, DailyMed. Summarised and shortened; the full label governs. Iranian registration, indications and labelling may differ.