Voclosporin

Excerpt

Voclosporin, a novel immunosuppressive medication, is approved for treating and managing lupus nephritis (LN) within the class of calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs). LN is a common manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), an autoimmune disease affecting various organs. Approximately 40% of SLE patients may develop LN. The primary goal of LN treatment is to preserve kidney function, reduce mortality, and improve the patient's quality of life while minimizing treatment-related adverse events. A timely response to therapy, as indicated by a reduction in proteinuria, may predict long-term outcomes, including the risk of SLE flares, end-stage kidney disease, and mortality. In the United States, voclosporin received FDA approval in 2021 for treating active LN in adults, combined with background immunosuppressive therapy. This CME activity overviews the indications, actions, and contraindications for voclosporin. It also emphasizes the mechanism of action, adverse event profile, and key factors such as dosing, pharmacokinetics, contraindications, and monitoring that are essential for healthcare team members involved in treating patients with lupus nephritis using voclosporin.