What's Happening?
KalVista Pharmaceuticals has presented new data at the ACAAI 2025 Annual Scientific Meeting, highlighting patient satisfaction with EKTERLY® (sebetralstat), an oral on-demand treatment for hereditary angioedema
(HAE). The data from the KONFIDENT-S study shows high satisfaction among patients who switched from injectable treatments to sebetralstat, with 84% of attacks treated being rated as satisfied or very satisfied. Additionally, interim results from the KONFIDENT-KID study indicate that sebetralstat is effective in treating HAE attacks in children aged 2-11, offering a non-invasive alternative to current intravenous or subcutaneous treatments. The studies underscore the unmet need for convenient, effective oral treatments for HAE, which can improve adherence to treatment guidelines and reduce the burden of injectable therapies.
Why It's Important?
The introduction of EKTERLY® as an oral treatment for HAE represents a significant advancement in patient care, particularly for those who experience anxiety and logistical challenges associated with injectable treatments. The high satisfaction rates and preference for oral administration could lead to increased adherence to treatment protocols, potentially improving patient outcomes. This development is particularly impactful for pediatric patients, who face additional challenges with current treatment methods. The availability of a non-invasive, effective treatment option could transform the management of HAE, reducing the frequency and severity of attacks and improving the quality of life for patients and their families.
What's Next?
KalVista Pharmaceuticals is continuing its efforts to expand the availability of EKTERLY® globally, with ongoing studies and regulatory applications in key markets. The company aims to establish EKTERLY® as a foundational therapy for HAE management, building on its success in patients aged 12 and older. The promising interim results from the KONFIDENT-KID study suggest that EKTERLY® could soon be approved for use in younger children, further broadening its impact. As the company progresses with its clinical trials and regulatory processes, the potential for EKTERLY® to become a standard treatment for HAE is significant.
Beyond the Headlines
The shift towards oral treatments for HAE reflects broader trends in patient-centered care, emphasizing convenience and patient preference. This development could lead to a reevaluation of treatment guidelines and practices, encouraging the adoption of more patient-friendly therapies. Additionally, the success of EKTERLY® may inspire further innovation in the treatment of other rare diseases, where similar challenges with injectable therapies exist.
