Nefecon offers significant kidney function enhancement for IgAN patients, irrespective of their initial eGFR levels.This groundbreaking subanalysis of the NeflgArd study, funded by Calliditas Therapeutics AB, reveals consistent benefits across various eGFR deciles.The research showed that nefecon reduced proteinuria adn preserved kidney function over a 9-month course, a landmark finding. The medication demonstrated pronounced on-treatment benefits, coupled with a delayed decline in kidney function during the observation phase, signaling a potential shift in IgAN treatment. This news underscores Nefecon’s potential as a valuable therapeutic option for a wide spectrum of IgAN patients. News Directory 3 is following the breakthroughs. Discover what’s next for igan management with nefecon.
Nefecon Shows Promise in IgAN Kidney Function Preservation
Updated June 7, 2025
Nefecon, an oral medication targeting the distal ileum, substantially improved kidney function in patients with immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN), according to a subanalysis of the phase 3 NeflgArd study. The study examined the impact of Nefecon on kidney function loss, regardless of initial estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).
The NeflgArd study involved randomly assigning patients with primary igan to receive either 16 mg of Nefecon or a placebo daily, alongside supportive care. A subsequent 15-month observation period followed. Researchers then stratified patients based on eGFR deciles to assess Nefecon’s effectiveness across varying levels of kidney function. The median eGFR was 55.49 mL/min/1.73 m2, balanced between the Nefecon and placebo groups.
The study found that Nefecon’s relative benefit in eGFR was consistent across most deciles,with greater benefits generally seen in groups with higher baseline eGFR (above 72 mL/min/1.73 m2).Additionally, a urine protein-creatinine ratio benefit was observed from month 9 onward with Nefecon compared to the placebo, regardless of baseline eGFR. This reduction continued to month 12, with a maintained benefit through month 24. The eGFR benefits where seen in both upper and lower deciles over two years, showing a pronounced on-treatment benefit and a delayed decline during the observation period, suggesting potential for IgAN treatment.
“This NefIgArd subanalysis demonstrated that the efficacy of a 9-month Nefecon treatment course in reduction of proteinuria and preservation of kidney function was independent of baseline eGFR,” said Dr. Jonathan Barratt, University of Leicester.
Barratt added that these results should instill confidence in treating individuals with Nefecon across the full range of eGFR, considering both the potential eGFR saving and proteinuria reduction.
What’s next
These findings, presented at the 62nd European Renal Association (ERA) Congress 2025, suggest that nefecon could be a valuable treatment option for a broad range of IgAN patients, regardless of their initial kidney function. Further research may explore long-term outcomes and optimal treatment strategies using Nefecon for IgAN management.
