Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of natalizumab in pediatric patients with RRMS

Objective This phase I study investigated pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) profiles of natalizumab in pediatric patients with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS). Methods Pediatric patients with RRMS who were prescribed natalizumab 300 mg IV every 4 weeks were enrolled. Blood samples were collected on days 1, 2, 8, 15, and 22 and at weeks 4, 8, 12, and 16 to estimate PK parameters; PD properties were evaluated by measuring alpha 4-integrin saturation and lymphocyte counts over time. Natalizumab's safety profile was also evaluated. Results PK parameters were similar to those reported in adult patients; natalizumab concentrations peaked approximately 1 day after infusion in most of the participants (Cmax 142.9 mu g/mL, AUClast 47389.4 hr*mu g/mL), followed by a biphasic decline with a rapid distribution phase and a slow elimination phase, with a terminal half-life of 215.1 hours. In terms of PD, both time course and magnitude of alpha 4-integrin saturation and increase in lymphocyte counts were similar to those observed in adults. During the 16-week study follow-up, 3 adverse events attributed to natalizumab were observed; no unexpected safety events occurred. Conclusions PK profile, alpha 4-integrin saturation, lymphocyte counts, and safety observed in these pediatric patients are comparable to those reported in adults. Classification of evidence This study provides Class I evidence that natalizumab PK/PD parameters and safety profile are similar in adults and pediatric patients in the short term. Longer studies, also including a larger number of younger subjects (aged 10-12 years), are required to further inform about long-term PK and PD parameters in pediatric patients with MS.