Efgartigimod
VyvgartRCSB PDB 7Q3P · 3D model
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Blocks a receptor that normally recycles antibodies, so the body clears out disease-causing antibodies faster.
How it works
In myasthenia gravis, the immune system makes antibodies that mistakenly attack the connection between nerves and muscles, causing weakness. The body has a built-in system — a receptor called FcRn — that normally rescues antibodies from being broken down, so they stick around in the blood a long time. Efgartigimod blocks that rescue system, so all antibodies, including the harmful ones causing the disease, get cleared out of the body faster than usual, reducing the attack on the muscles.
What it’s used for
Approved to treat generalized myasthenia gravis in adults, a condition where the immune system attacks the connection between nerves and muscles, causing muscle weakness.
- Mechanism
- Neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) antagonist (antibody Fc fragment)
- Drug class
- Fc fragment
- Therapeutic area
- Neurology / Immunology