Expert opinion on biological therapy
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Expert Opin Biol Ther · Nov 2007
ReviewReview of hepatitis B surface antigen-1018 ISS adjuvant-containing vaccine safety and efficacy.
Existing hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccines produce seroprotective titers in > 90% of healthy adult recipients following 3 doses administered over 6 months. The durability of this response is variable. Vaccine efficacy is greatly diminished in immune compromised patients. ⋯ Dynavax's hepatitis B virus vaccine HEPLISAV is comprised of 1018 ISS mixed with recombinant hepatitis B surface antigen. Clinical trials, to date, have shown that HEPLISAV produces rapid, high titer, sustained seroprotection in healthy adults and vaccine hyporesponsive populations. Although additional supporting data are required, this represents a promising strategy to facilitate worldwide HBV prevention efforts.
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Expert Opin Biol Ther · Nov 2007
ReviewDrotrecogin alpha (activated): the treatment for severe sepsis?
Severe sepsis is common and increasing in incidence. Mortality rates remain high. Discovery of the link between the coagulation system and the inflammatory response to sepsis led to the development of drotrecogin alpha (activated). ⋯ Drotrecogin alpha (activated) is associated with an increased risk of bleeding. Recent studies have shed light on its mode of action, which is primarily attributed today to cytoprotective effects especially on the endothelium with improved microcirculation. Ongoing studies will help define which patients are most likely to benefit, perhaps with the help of biochemical markers.