TAVNEOS

Tavneos is the brand name for avacopan, an oral small-molecule antagonist of the C5a receptor (C5aR1) used in the treatment of ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV), including granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) and microscopic polyangiitis (MPA). It is designed to inhibit the inflammatory effects driven by the complement component C5a, thereby reducing neutrophil activation and vascular injury without blocking the formation of the membrane attack complex.

Mechanism of action: Avacopan binds selectively to C5aR1, blocking signaling that would otherwise promote neutrophil chemotaxis, degranulation, and cytokine release. This targets a key inflammatory pathway in AAV while preserving other aspects of the immune response.

Medical uses: Avacopan is indicated for adults with GPA or MPA in combination with standard induction therapy to replace or taper glucocorticoids. The goal is effective disease control with reduced exposure to systemic steroids.

Clinical evidence: In the Phase 3 APOLLO trial, avacopan demonstrated noninferiority to prednisone in achieving remission at 26 weeks when used with standard therapy, and it enabled glucocorticoid-sparing regimens. The results supported a steroid-sparing option for induction therapy in AAV.

Safety and monitoring: The safety profile is generally consistent with immunosuppressive regimens used in AAV. Common adverse events include upper respiratory infections and headaches; serious adverse events occur at rates comparable to standard therapy. Because avacopan affects immune pathways and is metabolized by CYP3A4, monitoring for infections and potential drug interactions is advised.

Regulatory status: In the United States, Tavneos has been approved by the FDA for use in adults with GPA or MPA as part of induction therapy to replace prednisone alongside standard treatment. Regulatory status in other regions varies and should be checked locally.