Evaluating nipocalimab for the treatment of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy

INTRODUCTION: Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) is an immune-mediated neuropathy. Established first-line treatments for CIDP included immunoglobulin, corticosteroids, and plasma exchange, whereas the potential efficacy of a neonatal fragment crystallized receptor (FcRn) inhibitor has recently been highlighted. FcRn inhibitors have a selective action on serum IgG reduction, and a phase 2/3 trial with nipocalimab is ongoing, according to the findings of a phase 1 trial. AREAS COVERED: The present article discussed the potential mechanism of action, efficacy, and safety of nipocalimab for CIDP. The safety of nipocalimab was investigated in prior phase 1 trials for healthy participants and phase 2 and 3 trials for myasthenia gravis. Further, efgartigimod has already demonstrated its efficacy in the phase 2 trial and has been approved for CIDP in several countries. Based on these data, the mechanism of action, efficacy, and safety of nipocalimab for CIDP have been assumed. EXPERT OPINION: Nipocalimab represents a novel and potentially effective treatment option for CIDP, and the phase 2/3 trial is ongoing. One thing that clinicians will need to consider is the difference in the route of administration. Regardless, it should be considered positive that new treatment options are emerging for CIDP.