Asahi Kasei Advances Research to Ease Chemotherapy Nerve Symptoms

In a Phase III research of ART-123, Asahi Kasei Pharma has begun trial drug administration in Japan to avoid symptoms associated with chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. This statement comes after positive results from previous Phase I and II trials conducted in Japan, which showed that ART-123 effectively reduced patient symptoms without interfering with current treatment regimens.Peripheral neuropathy is known to be induced by chemotherapy, including vinca alkaloids, taxanes, and platinum-based medications. The symptoms of CIPN include tingling and soreness in the hands and feet, which can make daily tasks difficult if they are severe. Since there are currently no medications that are clearly useful in treating or preventing CIPN, patients have few and frequently unfavorable options.

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Recombinant human thrombomodulin (rTM) ART-123 was authorized in Japan in 2008. Asahi Kasei Pharma started the Phase III study after discussing possible clinical development with Japan's Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency. The trial will evaluate the safety and effectiveness of ART-123 for CIPN in patients receiving chemotherapy, which includes the platinum medication oxaliplatin, for colorectal cancer.

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“Patients undergoing chemotherapy still have no options for preventive or therapeutic drugs with clearly demonstrated efficacy for CIPN, leaving a significant unmet medical need worldwide,” said Yoshikazu Aoki, President, Asahi Kasei Pharma Corporation. “Limited treatment options for CIPN have made an already difficult situation even harder, leaving many patients and healthcare providers feeling discouraged as they seek ways to manage this challenging condition. We believe ART-123 could offer a new path forward in addressing this challenge and bringing solutions for patients on a global scale.”