TROPOS is designed to assess the neurologists‘ opinion on ofatumumab as a potential first-line multiple sclerosis (MS) treatment adminstered at home.

Ofatumumab, a fully human anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody, is self-administered through subcutaneous injection monthly at home. Ofatumumab demonstrated superior efficacy versus teriflunomide with a favorable safety profile in the Phase 3 ASCLEPIOS I/II trials in relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS) patients. Based on these results, the FDA recently approved ofatumumab for relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). EMA approval is expected by Q2 2021. In Germany, treatment of MS is not restricted to specialized centers. Thus, the evaluation of ofatumumab, especially by office-based neurologists, is highly relevant.

TROPOS is an online-based survey consisting of 31 questions. Between August 2020 and January 2021, the study is expected to collect data from 250 neurologists without treatment experience of ofatumumab in MS patients. Key aspects cover the decision criteria for first-line therapy and evaluation of ofatumumab as a first-line treatment for MS patients.

The first results anticipate a positive attitude towards early use of high-efficacy therapies (90%) for MS based on data by He et al., Lancet Neurology 2020. The reduction of relapses is considered the most relevant study outcome of ASCLEPIOS I and II (86%) and seen as a crucial criteria for first-line therapy decisions (95%). The mode of administration is considered relevant for the treatment decision (95%), with most neurologists responding to patients requests (81%). Monthly subcutaneous injections is expected to increase patient convenience. Longer application intervals are prefered over daily intake. Full analysis will be presented.

TROPOS provides insights into current MS patient management and reveals unmet needs of MS-treating neurologists in Germany. It shows ofatumumab’s potential as a first-line treatment and emphasizes the importance of innovative MS therapies, especially for treatment-naïve patients.