Efgartigimod: The Saviour for Autoimmune Condition

Efgartigimod (efgartigimodalfa-fcab, Vyvgart™) is a first-in-class neonatal Fc receptor antagonist being developed by argenx for the treatment of autoimmune diseases including myasthenia gravis. It used specifically in generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) in adults who are anti-acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibody positive. Efgartigimod binds to the FcRn and inhibits its interaction with IgG, thereby reducing IgG recycling and increasing degradation of IgG and pathological auto antibodies, without altering other immunoglobulins and albumin levels. This results in a reduction in overall levels of IgG, including the abnormal AChR antibodies that are present in gMG. Efgartigimod was approved by the FDA in December 2021, and is administered as a single-dose intravenous infusion. The most common side effects of efgartigimod include infusion reactions, headache, and upper respiratory tract infections. Efgartigimod is a promising new treatment for gMG, and has the potential to offer significant benefits to patients who have not responded to other treatments. Further studies are needed to assess the long-term safety and efficacy of efgartigimod.