Long-term, real-world experience of pasireotide dose reduction in patients with acromegaly

Abstract

Pasireotide long-acting release is effective in achieving biochemical control and reducing tumour volume in patients with acromegaly inadequately controlled by first-line therapy. As part of a long-term, real-world study at our centre, 20 of 50 patients receiving pasireotide benefited from a reduction in pasireotide dose. Pasireotide reduced insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) levels to below the upper limit of the normal range, with some patients responding within 1−3 months of treatment (n = 11) and others after ≥4 months (n = 9). Following pasireotide dose reduction, IGF1 levels showed a mild increase but remained within the normal range after a median of 39 months in the early responders and 17 months in the late responders. Glucose and glycated haemoglobin levels decreased following dose reduction. Identifying patients who may benefit from a reduction in pasireotide dose warrants further research as it may improve the management of pasireotide-associated hyperglycaemia in susceptible patients. Significance statement Patients with acromegaly often need medical therapy for extended periods of time, and pasireotide is an effective, long-term treatment option. However, pasireotide may increase blood glucose levels in some patients, such as those with pre-existing diabetes. In this single-centre study, we show that following dose reduction of pasireotide over time, patients with acromegaly maintained their biochemical response (IGF1 < ULN) and had improved glycaemic control. As such, dose reductions may be an effective, personalised treatment approach for managing some patients receiving long-term pasireotide therapy and could allow patients to achieve early and long-term biochemical control while minimising adverse drug effects.