Age-Related Macular DegenerationPhase 3MERLINNCT03710564
Study of Safety and Efficacy of Brolucizumab 6 mg Dosed Every 4 Weeks Compared to Aflibercept 2 mg Dosed Every 4 Weeks in Patients With Retinal Fluid Despite Frequent Anti-VEGF Injections
A Phase 3 study testing Brolucizumab and Aflibercept in people with Age-Related Macular Degeneration, run by Novartis Pharmaceuticals at 61 sites in 2 countries.
Trial summary
This clinical study was designed to compare the safety and efficacy of brolucizumab 6 mg dosed every 4 weeks to aflibercept 2 mg dosed every 4 weeks in those neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) patients with retinal fluid despite frequent anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) injections. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 50 years and older
- Conditions the study is for
- Age-Related Macular Degeneration
- What is being tested?
- Brolucizumab and Aflibercept
- Type of treatment
- Injection or infusion
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 535 participants
- Where
- 61 sitesin 2 countries
- Study dates
- 30 Oct 2018to 1 Jul 2021
- Phase
- Phase 3
- Are there results?
- Yes, posted in the registrySummary in the doctors' view
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 50 years and older
- All sexes
- No healthy volunteers
- Adult, Older adult
Who may be able to join
- Signed informed consent
- Diagnosis of wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
- Currently receiving anti-VEGF injections
Who cannot join
- Active infection or inflammation in either eye
- Significant fibrosis in the study eye
- Recent ocular surgery
- Uncontrolled glaucoma
- Use of medications as specified in the protocol
- Pregnant, nursing
- Of child-bearing potential unless using highly effective method of contraception
Trial locations and contacts
61 sites in 2 countries.
61 sites in 2 countries
United States60 sites
Novartis Investigative Site
‘Aiea, Hawaii, 96701
Novartis Investigative Site
Abilene, Texas, 79606
Novartis Investigative Site
Austin, Texas, 78705
Novartis Investigative Site
Austin, Texas, 78731
Novartis Investigative Site
Austin, Texas, 78793
Novartis Investigative Site
Beverly Hills, California, 90211
Novartis Investigative Site
Bloomfield, New Jersey, 07003
Novartis Investigative Site
Boston, Massachusetts, 02111
Novartis Investigative Site
Boston, Massachusetts, 02114
Novartis Investigative Site
Charlotte, North Carolina, 28210
Novartis Investigative Site
Cleveland, Ohio, 44122
Novartis Investigative Site
Colorado Springs, Colorado, 80909
Novartis Investigative Site
Deerfield Beach, Florida, 33064
Novartis Investigative Site
Eugene, Oregon, 97401
Novartis Investigative Site
Fairfax, Virginia, 22031
Novartis Investigative Site
Fairfield, Ohio, 45014
Novartis Investigative Site
Fort Lauderdale, Florida, 33308
Novartis Investigative Site
Fort Myers, Florida, 33912-7125
Novartis Investigative Site
Fort Worth, Texas, 76102
Novartis Investigative Site
Fort Worth, Texas, 76104
Novartis Investigative Site
Germantown, Tennessee, 38138
Novartis Investigative Site
Golden, Colorado, 80401
Novartis Investigative Site
Harlingen, Texas, 78550
Novartis Investigative Site
Houston, Texas, 77030
Novartis Investigative Site
Huntington Beach, California, 92647
Novartis Investigative Site
Kingston, Pennsylvania, 95403
Novartis Investigative Site
Las Vegas, Nevada, 89144
Novartis Investigative Site
Lenexa, Kansas, 66215
Novartis Investigative Site
Marietta, Georgia, 30060
Novartis Investigative Site
Miami, Florida, 33136
Novartis Investigative Site
Mountain View, California, 94040
Novartis Investigative Site
Mt. Dora, Florida, 32757
Novartis Investigative Site
New Orleans, Louisiana, 70115-8139
Novartis Investigative Site
Oakland, California, 94609
Novartis Investigative Site
Oxnard, California, 93036
Novartis Investigative Site
Palo Alto, California, 94303
Novartis Investigative Site
Pensacola, Florida, 32503
Novartis Investigative Site
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19107
Novartis Investigative Site
Phoenix, Arizona, 85016
Novartis Investigative Site
Phoenix, Arizona, 85020
Novartis Investigative Site
Phoenix, Arizona, 85053
Novartis Investigative Site
Redlands, California, 92374
Novartis Investigative Site
Reno, Nevada, 89502
Novartis Investigative Site
Royal Oak, Michigan, 48073
Novartis Investigative Site
Sacramento, California, 95841
Novartis Investigative Site
San Antonio, Texas, 78240
Novartis Investigative Site
San Francisco, California, 94107
Novartis Investigative Site
Santa Barbara, California, 93103
Novartis Investigative Site
Spokane, Washington, 99204
Novartis Investigative Site
Springfield, Massachusetts, 01107
Novartis Investigative Site
St Louis, Missouri, 63110
Novartis Investigative Site
St. Petersburg, Florida, 33711
Novartis Investigative Site
Stuart, Florida, 34994
Novartis Investigative Site
Syracuse, New York, 13224
Novartis Investigative Site
Toms River, New Jersey, 08755
Novartis Investigative Site
Tyler, Texas, 75701
Novartis Investigative Site
Waldorf, Maryland, 20602
Novartis Investigative Site
West Des Moines, Iowa, 50266
Novartis Investigative Site
West Monroe, Louisiana, 71291
Novartis Investigative Site
Wheaton, Illinois, 60187
About this study
Official title: A Multicenter, Randomized, Double-masked Phase 3a Study to Assess Safety and Efficacy of Brolucizumab 6 mg q4 Weeks Compared to Aflibercept 2 mg q4 Weeks in Patients With Neovascular Age-related Macular Degeneration (nAMD) With Persistent Retinal Fluid (MERLIN)
This clinical study was designed to compare the safety and efficacy of brolucizumab 6 mg dosed every 4 weeks to aflibercept 2 mg dosed every 4 weeks in those neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) patients with retinal fluid despite frequent anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) injections.
Read the detailed description
This was a Phase III, multi-center, randomized, double-masked, parallel group study with 2 masked arms in which participants were randomized 2:1 to receive brolucizumab or aflibercept. All participants had study visits every 4 weeks through week 104.
The study consisted of three study periods:
Screening Period: The screening period lasted up to 2 weeks prior to administration of the first dose of study treatment, dependent upon confirmation of the patient meeting eligibility criteria.
Double-Masked Treatment Period: Participants meeting eligibility criteria entered the treatment period and were randomized in a 2:1 ratio into one of the following 2 masked treatment arms at the Baseline visit: Brolucizumab 6 mg injected every 4 weeks or Aflibercept 2 mg injected every 4 weeks. Treatment period lasted up to week 100.
Safety Follow up Period: Participants were followed up for safety during 4 weeks after the last dose of study treatment. Including the Screening Period, the total study duration for a participant was up to 106 weeks.
Some participants were eligible to continue into an extension study in order to receive treatment with brolucizumab (a) after completing the 104 -week double-masked treatment period, (b) upon meeting all inclusion/exclusion criteria for the extension study, and (c) based on Investigator's judgment that the participant was expected to benefit from treatment with brolucizumab.
- Conditions
- Age-Related Macular Degeneration
- Being tested
- Brolucizumab, Aflibercept
- Keywords
- neovascular age-related macular degeneration, nAMD, intravitreal injection, IVT, anti-VEGF, brolucizumab, aflibercept, EYLEA, double-masked, MERLIN, BEOVU
- Medical subject headings
- Macular Degeneration, Neurofibromatosis 2
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
BrolucizumabBiological
Also called RTH258
6 mg/0.05mL solution for intravitreal injection
AfliberceptBiological
Also called EYLEA
2 mg/0.05mL solution for intravitreal injection
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Brolucizumab | Experimental | Brolucizumab 6 mg dosed every 4 weeks was administered via intravitreal injection for 100 weeks. Receives: Biological: Brolucizumab |
| Aflibercept | Active comparator | Aflibercept 2 mg dosed every 4 weeks was administered via intravitreal injection for 100 weeks. Receives: Biological: Aflibercept |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Change From Baseline in Best-Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA) at Week 52
BCVA was assessed using the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) visual acuity testing protocol at an initial testing distance of 4 meters. BCVA min and max possible scores are 0-100 respectively and a higher score represents better functioning. A positive change from baseline represents better functioning.
Baseline BCVA was defined as the last measurement on or prior to the baseline visit. BCVA assessments after start of alternative anti-VEGF treatment in the study eye were censored and imputed by the last value prior to start of alternative treatment. Last observation carried forward (LOCF) was used for the imputation of missing values.
Measured: Baseline, week 52
Secondary outcomes (16)
Stable Visual Acuity (VA) or Improvement in VA at Week 52 and Week 104
Visual Acuity (VA) was assessed using the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) visual acuity testing protocol at an initial testing distance of 4 meters. VA min and max possible scores are 0-100 respectively and a higher score represents better functioning. The number of participants with no change or gain in VA compared to baseline was reported. VA stabilization or improvement is defined as a change from baseline no worse than 5 letters loss in VA compared to Baseline.
Baseline VA was defined as the last measurement on or prior to the baseline visit. VA assessments after start of alternative anti-VEGF treatment in the study eye were censored and imputed by the last value prior to start of alternative treatment.
Measured: Baseline, weeks 52 and 104
Loss in Best-Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA) of 5 Letters or More
BCVA was assessed using the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) visual acuity testing protocol at an initial testing distance of 4 meters. BCVA min and max possible scores are 0-100 respectively and a higher score represents better functioning. The number of subjects with loss in BCVA of 5 letters or more from baseline was reported for each post-baseline visit.
Baseline BCVA was defined as the last measurement on or prior to the baseline visit. BCVA assessments after start of alternative anti-VEGF treatment in the study eye were censored and imputed by the last value prior to start of alternative treatment.
Measured: Baseline, weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, 40, 44, 48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 68, 72, 76, 80, 84, 88, 92, 96, 100 and 104
Loss in Best-Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA) of 10 Letters or More
BCVA was assessed using the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) visual acuity testing protocol at an initial testing distance of 4 meters. BCVA min and max possible scores are 0-100 respectively and a higher score represents better functioning. The number of subjects with loss in BCVA of 10 letters or more from baseline was reported for each post-baseline visit.
Baseline BCVA was defined as the last measurement on or prior to the baseline visit. BCVA assessments after start of alternative anti-VEGF treatment in the study eye were censored and imputed by the last value prior to start of alternative treatment.
Measured: Baseline, weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, 40, 44, 48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 68, 72, 76, 80, 84, 88, 92, 96, 100 and 104
Loss in Best-Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA) of 15 Letters or More
BCVA was assessed using the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) visual acuity testing protocol at an initial testing distance of 4 meters. BCVA min and max possible scores are 0-100 respectively and a higher score represents better functioning. The number of subjects with loss in BCVA of 15 letters or more from baseline was reported for each post-baseline visit.
Baseline BCVA was defined as the last measurement on or prior to the baseline visit. BCVA assessments after start of alternative anti-VEGF treatment in the study eye were censored and imputed by the last value prior to start of alternative treatment.
Measured: Baseline, weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, 40, 44, 48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 68, 72, 76, 80, 84, 88, 92, 96, 100 and 104
Gain in Best-Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA) of 5 Letters or More
BCVA was assessed using the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) visual acuity testing protocol at an initial testing distance of 4 meters. BCVA min and max possible scores are 0-100 respectively and a higher score represents better functioning. The number of subjects with gain in BCVA of 5 letters or more from baseline was reported for each post-baseline visit.
Baseline BCVA was defined as the last measurement on or prior to the baseline visit. BCVA assessments after start of alternative anti-VEGF treatment in the study eye were censored and imputed by the last value prior to start of alternative treatment.
Measured: Baseline, weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, 40, 44, 48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 68, 72, 76, 80, 84, 88, 92, 96, 100 and 104
Gain in Best-Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA) of 10 Letters or More
BCVA was assessed using the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) visual acuity testing protocol at an initial testing distance of 4 meters. BCVA min and max possible scores are 0-100 respectively and a higher score represents better functioning. The number of subjects with gain in BCVA of 10 letters or more from baseline was reported for each post-baseline visit.
Baseline BCVA was defined as the last measurement on or prior to the baseline visit. BCVA assessments after start of alternative anti-VEGF treatment in the study eye were censored and imputed by the last value prior to start of alternative treatment.
Measured: Baseline, weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, 40, 44, 48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 68, 72, 76, 80, 84, 88, 92, 96, 100 and 104
Gain in Best-Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA) of 15 Letters or More
BCVA was assessed using the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) visual acuity testing protocol at an initial testing distance of 4 meters. BCVA min and max possible scores are 0-100 respectively and a higher score represents better functioning. The number of subjects with gain in BCVA of 15 letters or more from baseline was reported for each post-baseline visit.
Baseline BCVA was defined as the last measurement on or prior to the baseline visit. BCVA assessments after start of alternative anti-VEGF treatment in the study eye were censored and imputed by the last value prior to start of alternative treatment.
Measured: Baseline, weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, 40, 44, 48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 68, 72, 76, 80, 84, 88, 92, 96, 100 and 104
Change in Central Subfield Thickness (CST) From Baseline
CST was assessed using Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomography (SD-OCT) images. A negative change from baseline is a favorable outcome. CST assessments after start of alternative anti-VEGF treatment in the study eye were censored and imputed by the last value prior to start of alternative treatment. These results were based on analysis using the Last observation carried forward (LOCF) approach for replacement/imputation of censored/missing values and observed data.
Measured: Baseline, weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, 40, 44, 48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 68, 72, 76, 80, 84, 88, 92, 96, 100 and 104
Number of Participants With Intraretinal Fluid (IRF)
IRF was assessed using Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomography (SD-OCT) images. The number of participants with presence of IRF was reported for each post-baseline visit. These results were based on analysis using the Last observation carried forward (LOCF) approach for replacement/imputation of censored/missing values and observed data.
Measured: Weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, 40, 44, 48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 68, 72, 76, 80, 84, 88, 92, 96, 100 and 104
Number of Participants With Subretinal Fluid (SRF)
SRF was assessed using Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomography (SD-OCT) images. The number of participants with presence of SRF was reported for each post-baseline visit. These results were based on analysis using the Last observation carried forward (LOCF) approach for replacement/imputation of censored/missing values and observed data.
Measured: Weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, 40, 44, 48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 68, 72, 76, 80, 84, 88, 92, 96, 100 and 104
Number of Participants With Sub-Retinal Pigment Epithelium (Sub-RPE) Fluid
Sub-RPE fluid was assessed using Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomography (SD-OCT) images. The number of participants with presence of sub-RPE fluid in participants with sub-RPE fluid at baseline was reported for each post-baseline visit. These results were based on analysis using the Last observation carried forward (LOCF) approach for replacement/imputation of censored/missing values and observed data.
Measured: Weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, 40, 44, 48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 68, 72, 76, 80, 84, 88, 92, 96, 100 and 104
Number of Participants With Fluid-free Status (no IRF, SRF or Sub-RPE Fluid)
Intraretinal fluid (IRF), Subretinal fluid (SRF) and Sub-Retinal Pigment Epithelium fluid (sub-RPE) were assessed using Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomography (SD-OCT) images. The number of participants with fluid-free status (simultaneous absence of IRF, SRF, and sub-RPE) was reported for each post-baseline visit. These results were based on analysis using the Last observation carried forward (LOCF) approach for replacement/imputation of censored/missing values and observed data.
Measured: Weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, 40, 44, 48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 68, 72, 76, 80, 84, 88, 92, 96, 100 and 104
Time to First Dry Retina (no IRF or SRF)
Intraretinal fluid (IRF) and Subretinal fluid (SRF) were assessed using Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomography (SD-OCT) images. A dry retina is defined as no IRF or SRF at the respective visit. Kaplan-Meier method was used for estimate of percentiles with 95% CI based on methodology of Brookmeyer and Crowley. Data was censored at the last time when IRF/SRF assessments for fluid-free retina were available for participants who discontinued on/or prior to the time of the start of alternative anti-VEGF treatment. IRF and SRF assessments on unscheduled visits were considered.
Measured: Baseline, Up to Week 104 (assessments every 4 weeks)
Time to Sustained Dry Retina (no IRF or SRF at ≥ 2 Consecutive Visits)
Intraretinal fluid (IRF) and Subretinal fluid (SRF) were assessed using Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomography (SD-OCT) images. A sustained dry retina is defined as no IRF or SRF at 2 or more consecutive visits. Kaplan-Meier method was used for estimate of percentiles with 95% CI based on methodology of Brookmeyer and Crowley. Data was censored at the last time when IRF/SRF assessments for fluid-free retina were available for participants who discontinued on/or prior to the time of the start of alternative anti-VEGF treatment. IRF and SRF assessments on unscheduled visits were considered.
Measured: Baseline, Up to Week 104 (assessments every 4 weeks)
Number of Participants With Anti-drug Antibody (ADA) Negative Status
A blood sample was collected for anti-drug antibody assessment. ADA negative status = ADA negative result at the corresponding study visit. The baseline sample was collected prior to first dose of study treatment and the post-baseline assessments were taken at the scheduled timepoints. A negative Titer was used to assess the ADA status for the brolucizumab arm.
Measured: Baseline, weeks 4, 12, 24, 36, 52, 76 and 104
Free Brolucizumab Serum Concentration
A blood sample was collected for Free Brolucizumab serum concentration assessment. This outcome measure was pre-specified for the brolucizumab arm only. The baseline sample was collected prior to first dose of study treatment and the post-baseline assessments.
Values below the limit of quantification (BLQ) (<0.5 ng/mL) were replaced by one half of the LLOQ (0.25 ng/mL) in the calculation of the summary statistics. For the Mean score at each visit, if the calculated value was less than 0.5, then "NA" was displayed instead; meaning that the score is below the limit of quantitation (<0.5 ng/mL).
Measured: pre-dose a baseline, weeks 4, 12, 24, 36, 52, 76 and 104
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted18 Oct 2018
- Study start30 Oct 2018
- Primary completion21 Dec 2020
- Study completion1 Jul 2021
Why it stopped: Sponsor Decision
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Posted resultsParticipant flow, outcome measures and adverse events reported by the sponsor.
- Other trials for Age-Related Macular DegenerationStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- More trials run by Novartis PharmaceuticalsThe sponsor's other registered studies.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase 3
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Model description
- multicenter, randomized, double-masked
- Masking
- Triple blind
- Who is masked
- Participant, Care provider, Investigator
- Enrolment
- 535 participants (actual)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Novartis Pharmaceuticals
- Sponsor type
- Industry (pharma, biotech, devices)
- Responsible party
- Sponsor
- Investigators
- Novartis Pharmaceuticals, Study director, Novartis Pharmaceuticals
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT03710564
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- CRTH258AUS04
- Acronym
- MERLIN
- Status last verified
- Jan 2023
- First submitted
- 16 Oct 2018
- Last updated
- 30 Jan 2023
- Results posted
- Yes, on ClinicalTrials.gov
- Data monitoring committee
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- Yes
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- Yes: Novartis is committed to sharing with qualified external researchers, access to patient-level data and supporting clinical documents from eligible studies. These requests are reviewed and approved by an independent review panel on the basis of scientific merit. All data provided is anonymized to respect the privacy of patients who have participated in the trial in line with applicable laws and regulations. This trial data availability is according to the criteria and process described on www.clinicalstudydatarequest.com
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 30 Jan 2023. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- A Multicenter, Randomized, Double-masked Phase 3a Study to Assess Safety and Efficacy of Brolucizumab 6 mg q4 Weeks Compared to Aflibercept 2 mg q4 Weeks in Patients With Neovascular Age-related Macular Degeneration (nAMD) With Persistent Retinal Fluid (MERLIN)
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT03710564
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- MERLIN / CRTH258AUS04
- Conditions
- Age-Related Macular Degeneration
- Keywords
- neovascular age-related macular degeneration, nAMD, intravitreal injection, IVT, anti-VEGF, brolucizumab, aflibercept, EYLEA
- Phase
- Phase 3
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- TerminatedReason stopped: Sponsor Decision
- Enrolment
- 535 participants (actual)
- Lead sponsor
- Novartis PharmaceuticalsIndustry (pharma, biotech, devices)
- Study start
- 30 Oct 2018 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 21 Dec 2020 (actual)
- Study completion
- 1 Jul 2021 (actual)
- First posted
- 18 Oct 2018 (actual)
- Results
- Posted 22 Jul 2022
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
This clinical study was designed to compare the safety and efficacy of brolucizumab 6 mg dosed every 4 weeks to aflibercept 2 mg dosed every 4 weeks in those neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) patients with retinal fluid despite frequent anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) injections.
Detailed description
This was a Phase III, multi-center, randomized, double-masked, parallel group study with 2 masked arms in which participants were randomized 2:1 to receive brolucizumab or aflibercept. All participants had study visits every 4 weeks through week 104.
The study consisted of three study periods:
Screening Period: The screening period lasted up to 2 weeks prior to administration of the first dose of study treatment, dependent upon confirmation of the patient meeting eligibility criteria.
Double-Masked Treatment Period: Participants meeting eligibility criteria entered the treatment period and were randomized in a 2:1 ratio into one of the following 2 masked treatment arms at the Baseline visit: Brolucizumab 6 mg injected every 4 weeks or Aflibercept 2 mg injected every 4 weeks. Treatment period lasted up to week 100.
Safety Follow up Period: Participants were followed up for safety during 4 weeks after the last dose of study treatment. Including the Screening Period, the total study duration for a participant was up to 106 weeks.
Some participants were eligible to continue into an extension study in order to receive treatment with brolucizumab (a) after completing the 104 -week double-masked treatment period, (b) upon meeting all inclusion/exclusion criteria for the extension study, and (c) based on Investigator's judgment that the participant was expected to benefit from treatment with brolucizumab.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Triple blind (participant, care provider, investigator)
- Number of arms
- 2
- Model description
- multicenter, randomized, double-masked
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Brolucizumab | Experimental | Biological: BrolucizumabBrolucizumab 6 mg dosed every 4 weeks was administered via intravitreal injection for 100 weeks. |
| Aflibercept | Active comparator | Biological: AfliberceptAflibercept 2 mg dosed every 4 weeks was administered via intravitreal injection for 100 weeks. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 50 years and older
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Not accepted
- Age groups
- Adult, Older adult
Key inclusion criteria (3 listed)
- Signed informed consent
- Diagnosis of wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
- Currently receiving anti-VEGF injections
Key exclusion criteria (7 listed)
- Active infection or inflammation in either eye
- Significant fibrosis in the study eye
- Recent ocular surgery
- Uncontrolled glaucoma
- Use of medications as specified in the protocol
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| BrolucizumabAlso: RTH2586 mg/0.05mL solution for intravitreal injection | Biological | Brolucizumab |
| AfliberceptAlso: EYLEA2 mg/0.05mL solution for intravitreal injection | Biological | Aflibercept |
Primary outcome
Change From Baseline in Best-Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA) at Week 52
Time frame: Baseline, week 52
BCVA was assessed using the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) visual acuity testing protocol at an initial testing distance of 4 meters. BCVA min and max possible scores are 0-100 respectively and a higher score represents better functioning. A positive change from baseline represents better functioning. Baseline BCVA was defined as the last measurement on or prior to the baseline visit. BCVA assessments after start of alternative anti-VEGF treatment in the study eye were censored and imputed by the last value prior to start of alternative treatment. Last observation carried forward (LOCF) was used for the imputation of missing values.
16 secondary outcomes
Stable Visual Acuity (VA) or Improvement in VA at Week 52 and Week 104
Time frame: Baseline, weeks 52 and 104
Loss in Best-Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA) of 5 Letters or More
Time frame: Baseline, weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, 40, 44, 48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 68, 72, 76, 80, 84, 88, 92, 96, 100 and 104
Loss in Best-Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA) of 10 Letters or More
Time frame: Baseline, weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, 40, 44, 48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 68, 72, 76, 80, 84, 88, 92, 96, 100 and 104
Loss in Best-Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA) of 15 Letters or More
Time frame: Baseline, weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, 40, 44, 48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 68, 72, 76, 80, 84, 88, 92, 96, 100 and 104
Gain in Best-Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA) of 5 Letters or More
Time frame: Baseline, weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, 40, 44, 48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 68, 72, 76, 80, 84, 88, 92, 96, 100 and 104
Gain in Best-Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA) of 10 Letters or More
Time frame: Baseline, weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, 40, 44, 48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 68, 72, 76, 80, 84, 88, 92, 96, 100 and 104
Gain in Best-Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA) of 15 Letters or More
Time frame: Baseline, weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, 40, 44, 48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 68, 72, 76, 80, 84, 88, 92, 96, 100 and 104
Change in Central Subfield Thickness (CST) From Baseline
Time frame: Baseline, weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, 40, 44, 48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 68, 72, 76, 80, 84, 88, 92, 96, 100 and 104
Number of Participants With Intraretinal Fluid (IRF)
Time frame: Weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, 40, 44, 48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 68, 72, 76, 80, 84, 88, 92, 96, 100 and 104
Number of Participants With Subretinal Fluid (SRF)
Time frame: Weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, 40, 44, 48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 68, 72, 76, 80, 84, 88, 92, 96, 100 and 104
Number of Participants With Sub-Retinal Pigment Epithelium (Sub-RPE) Fluid
Time frame: Weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, 40, 44, 48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 68, 72, 76, 80, 84, 88, 92, 96, 100 and 104
Number of Participants With Fluid-free Status (no IRF, SRF or Sub-RPE Fluid)
Time frame: Weeks 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, 40, 44, 48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 68, 72, 76, 80, 84, 88, 92, 96, 100 and 104
Time to First Dry Retina (no IRF or SRF)
Time frame: Baseline, Up to Week 104 (assessments every 4 weeks)
Time to Sustained Dry Retina (no IRF or SRF at ≥ 2 Consecutive Visits)
Time frame: Baseline, Up to Week 104 (assessments every 4 weeks)
Number of Participants With Anti-drug Antibody (ADA) Negative Status
Time frame: Baseline, weeks 4, 12, 24, 36, 52, 76 and 104
Free Brolucizumab Serum Concentration
Time frame: pre-dose a baseline, weeks 4, 12, 24, 36, 52, 76 and 104
Results and safety
Loading the posted results from ClinicalTrials.gov…
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 30 Jan 2023.
- Posted resultsParticipant flow, baseline, all outcome measures and adverse events.
- A Plain Language Trial Summary is available on novctrd.comLink provided by the sponsor.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: Yes. Novartis is committed to sharing with qualified external researchers, access to patient-level data and supporting clinical documents from eligible studies. These requests are reviewed and approved by an independent review panel on the basis of scientific merit. All data provided is anonymized to respect the privacy of patients who have participated in the trial in line with applicable laws and regulations. This trial data availability is according to the criteria and process described on www.clinicalstudydatarequest.com
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part. This study is not recruiting at the moment.
Novartis Pharmaceuticals study director
Novartis Pharmaceuticals
61 sites in 2 countries: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A Phase 3 study testing Brolucizumab and Aflibercept in people with Age-Related Macular Degeneration, run by Novartis Pharmaceuticals at 61 sites in 2 countries.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 3 inclusion and 7 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: stopped early, as of the sponsor's last update on 30 Jan 2023. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 61 sites in United States, Puerto Rico. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
What does this phase mean?
Phase 3 studies compare the treatment with the current standard treatment or a placebo in a large group, to confirm how well it works and watch for side effects.
Not every study follows the same path, and some studies (observational studies, device studies) have no phase.
Are results available for this study?
Yes. Results are posted in the registry (first posted 22 Jul 2022). A summary is in the For doctors view, and the full results are on ClinicalTrials.gov.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Change From Baseline in Best-Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA) at Week 52 (time frame: Baseline, week 52). It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 30 Jan 2023.