Risk of hypertension with ramucirumab-based therapy in solid tumors: data from a literature based meta-analysis

Ramucirumab is a monoclonal antibody against Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor-2 (VEGFR-2) approved for the treatment of several solid tumours. As shown in recent trials results, new-onset hypertension is one of the most frequent adverse events associated with ramucirumab therapy. Recent studies looked at the quantification of the risk of hypertension in patients receiving other anti-angiogenesis medications. We conducted a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials with the aim to investigate the incidence and quantify the risk of new-onset hypertension of any grade in patients treated with ramucirumab. Our research suggests that hypertension is frequently associated with ramucirumab therapy, with an OR of 3.60 for any grade of hypertension and an even stronger correlation with grade 3-4 hypertension (OR 4.16). These data suggest that a strict monitoring, as well as early intervention protocols, are recommended in patients receiving the drug.