Peginesatide as a new approach for treating anemia of CKD patient: Is it like a falling star?

Abstract

Any scientific innovation needs to translate into a significant benefit. Peginesatide is noninferior to other erythropoiesis stimulating agents (ESAs) in terms of efficacy, and it shares the advantages of other long-acting ESAs: delayed administration frequency and no changes in dose needs according to the administration route. The molecular structure of peginesatide does not require the use of recombinant DNA technology during the manufacturing process, making its synthesis simpler and likely economically cheaper. During clinical development, its safety profile seemed to be safe, excepting the potential increase in the risk of safety end-point events in nondialysis CKD patients. However postmarketing serious hypersensitivity reactions have completely changed the scenario and urgently needs in-depth clarification. This promising drug seems to have prematurely finished its prospects. © 2013 Informa UK, Ltd.