Glycogen Storage Disease, Type II (Pompe Disease) Medication
- Author: Wayne E Anderson, DO; Chief Editor: George T Griffing, MD more...
Medication Summary
The goals of pharmacotherapy are to reduce morbidity and prevent complications.
Enzyme, Replacement Therapy
Class Summary
Recombinant human enzyme alpha-glucosidase has been designated an orphan drug for use in Pompe disease.[9]
Strothotte et al assessed the effects of alglucosidase alfa replacement therapy on various stages of late-onset Pompe disease, using a series of tests on 44 patients with the condition.[10] Replacement therapy was administered for 1 year (20 mg/kg IV q2wk), with tests performed at baseline and then every 3 months. Results from the 6-minute walk and modified Gowers' maneuver tests changed significantly, as did creatine kinase levels. Other test outcomes (eg, from serial arm function tests, timed 10 m walk tests, 4-stair climb tests) remained the same from baseline to endpoint. The patients experienced no serious adverse events. According to the authors, the data imply that the treatment of Pompe disease with alglucosidase alfa replacement can stabilize neuromuscular deficits and produce mild functional improvement in patients.
Alglucosidase alfa (Lumizyme, Myozyme)
Recombinant human enzyme alpha-glucosidase (rhGAA) indicated as an orphan drug for treatment of Pompe disease (GAA deficiency). Replaces rhGAA, which is deficient or lacking in persons with Pompe disease. Alpha-glucosidase is essential for normal muscle development and function. Binds to mannose-6-phosphate receptors and then is transported into lysosomes; undergoes proteolytic cleavage that results in increased enzymatic activity and ability to cleave glycogen. Improves infant survival without requiring invasive ventilatory support compared with historical controls without treatment.
Myozyme indicated for Pompe disease. Improves ventilator-free survival in patients with infantile-onset Pompe disease as compared to an untreated historical control.
Lumizyme indicated for patients 8 y and older with late (noninfantile) onset Pompe disease) who do not have evidence of cardiac hypertrophy.
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