Flucelvax (Optaflu) for seasonal influenza

Expert Rev Vaccines. 2015 Jun;14(6):789-804. doi: 10.1586/14760584.2015.1039520.

Abstract

Conventional egg-based manufacturing technology for seasonal influenza vaccines has several drawbacks, including its inflexibility, reliance on egg supplies, risk of contamination, absence of growth of some isolates and egg-adaptive viral mutations that threaten vaccine matching. To overcome these limitations, cell culture-derived vaccines have been designed, including the trivalent inactivated vaccine Flucelvax®/Optaflu® (brand names in the US/EU, respectively). Flucelvax®/Optaflu® has gained wide regulatory approval and is currently implemented in several countries. Non-clinical studies have assuaged hypothetical concerns regarding oncogenicity and use in persons allergic to dogs. Ample clinical data suggest the non-inferiority of Flucelvax®/Optaflu® to egg-based vaccines in terms of immunogenicity, safety and tolerability, and it has fulfilled American and European mandatory requirements. Although Flucelvax®/Optaflu® is currently indicated only for adults and the elderly, pediatric data indicate its good immunogenicity and safety. This paper provides an update on the clinical development of Flucelvax®/Optaflu®, its seasonal trials and available post-marketing surveillance data.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Dogs
  • Drug Evaluation, Preclinical
  • Humans
  • Influenza Vaccines / immunology*
  • Influenza Vaccines / isolation & purification*
  • Influenza, Human / prevention & control*
  • Madin Darby Canine Kidney Cells
  • Product Surveillance, Postmarketing
  • Technology, Pharmaceutical / methods*
  • Vaccination / methods*

Substances

  • Influenza Vaccines