An analysis of whether the efficacy of Anamorelin hydrochloride is ideal

Anamorelin (Anamorelin) has received widespread attention overseas. The core reason is that it provides a new treatment idea for cancer anorexia-cachexia syndrome, an area that has long lacked effective drug intervention. As a ghrelin receptor agonist, anamorelin does not simply stimulate appetite, but comprehensively improves appetite, weight and quality of life by regulating central and peripheral metabolic signals.

Judging from the published research results, the efficacy evaluation of anamorelin is not limited to the single indicator of weight change. In a Phase II randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study, short-term use showed positive signs. The study showed that after several days of treatment, the patient had gained weight, and at the same time, the patient-reported outcomes (PRO) scores related to appetite were significantly improved. This rapid response has important clinical implications for patients with cachexia, as appetite restoration is often the basis for subsequent improvements in physical performance.

As the treatment time prolongs, the effects of anamulin on body composition and function gradually become apparent. Overseas studies have shown that after several months of continuous treatment, the patient's weight and lean body mass (LBM) increased, which was verified through objective means such as DEXA. At the same time, muscle function indicators such as grip strength and quality of life-related scores also showed an improvement trend, especially in terms of happiness, sleep quality, nausea relief, and improvement in sleepiness. This shows that the role of Anamorelin is not limited to "eating more", but has a comprehensive impact on the overall state.

At the mechanism level, anamorelin can promote the upregulation of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and its binding protein IGFBP-3 levels, which is considered to be related to its improvement in muscle metabolism and body composition. It is worth noting that overseas data generally mention that the drug’s impact on blood sugar and insulin levels is relatively mild, the overall tolerability is good, and no obvious risk of metabolic imbalance has been observed.

Reference materials:https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5776683/