Differences in efficacy found in animals between recombinant forms of erythropoietin will not necessarily translate into differences in humans
2002

Differences in Efficacy of Erythropoietin Forms in Animals vs. Humans

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Malonne H

Primary Institution: Laboratoire de Physiologie et de Pharmacologie Fondamentales, Institut de Pharmacie, Université Libre de Bruxelles

Hypothesis

Will differences in efficacy found in animals between recombinant forms of erythropoietin translate into differences in humans?

Conclusion

The study suggests that findings from animal models regarding the efficacy of NESP compared to r-HuEPO may not apply to humans.

Supporting Evidence

  • NESP has a longer serum half-life than r-HuEPO in animal models.
  • Both NESP and r-HuEPO require increased doses when switching from thrice-weekly to once-weekly regimens.
  • Human studies have shown comparable efficacy profiles for NESP and r-HuEPO.

Takeaway

Scientists tested two types of medicine for blood production in animals, but what works in animals might not work the same way in people.

Methodology

The study compared the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of NESP and r-HuEPO in animal models.

Limitations

The study emphasizes that results from animal models may not be indicative of human responses.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1038/sj.bjc.6600503

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