Network Meta-analysis Comparing Vonoprazan and Proton Pump Inhibitors for Heartburn Symptoms in Erosive Esophagitis

Goals: This systematic review and network meta-analysis aimed to assess the relative efficacy of vonoprazan and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) on early heartburn symptom resolution in patients with erosive esophagitis. Background: Limited available data directly compare the efficacy of vonoprazan, a first-in-class potassium-competitive acid blocker, with PPIs in erosive esophagitis. Study: We conducted a systematic literature review (in MEDLINE and CENTRAL) and subsequent network meta-analysis according to Cochrane and PRISMA guidelines. Double-blind, randomized controlled trials in adults with erosive esophagitis treated with vonoprazan or a PPI were included in the analysis. Primary outcomes were heartburn symptom resolution rate on Day 1 and Day 7. The study was performed with all available data, using a random effects model within a Bayesian framework. Results: Overall, 10 randomized controlled trials were included in the network meta-analysis. For heartburn resolution rate on Day 1 (9 of 10 trials), vonoprazan 20 mg once daily (QD) was superior to placebo (median odds ratio=16.75, 95% credible interval: 2.16-207.80). Point estimates numerically favored vonoprazan 20 mg QD over other comparators. For heartburn resolution rate on Day 7 (10 of 10 trials), vonoprazan 20 mg QD was superior to placebo and other comparators except rabeprazole 20 mg QD. Point estimates numerically favored vonoprazan 20 mg QD over rabeprazole 20 mg QD. Conclusions: In this study, vonoprazan 20 mg QD was equally effective in heartburn resolution on Day 1, and equally or more effective on Day 7 versus PPIs in adults with erosive esophagitis.