Clinical Trials for Myasthenia Gravis
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is a rare neuromuscular disorder that causes muscle weakness and fatigue, often affecting the eyes, face, throat, and limbs. Treatment has advanced significantly in recent years, and clinical trials are an important part of that progress. If standard therapies have not worked for you, or if your insurance has denied a medication your neurologist recommends, a clinical trial may offer another path forward.
According to the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America, MG affects an estimated 36,000 to 60,000 people in the United States. Research into new treatments is ongoing and active.
What Types of Trials Are Available?
MG trials are studying a range of approaches:
Phase 2 and Phase 3 trials are currently testing complement inhibitors (like eculizumab and newer agents), neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) blockers that reduce harmful antibodies, and other immunosuppressive biologics. These trials often require confirmed anti-AChR or anti-MuSK antibody positivity. Early-phase trials are exploring novel mechanisms including B-cell depletion therapies and targeted approaches for refractory MG. Observational studies are tracking long-term outcomes and quality of life in people living with MG.Search ClinicalTrials.gov for currently recruiting MG trials near you.
Am I Eligible?
Eligibility varies by trial, but many MG trials look for:
- Confirmed diagnosis of generalized MG (not just ocular MG, though some trials include it)
- Specific antibody profiles (anti-AChR or anti-MuSK positive)
- Disease that is active or not adequately controlled on current therapy
- No recent participation in other interventional trials
Some trials specifically enroll people who have not responded to standard immunosuppressants like prednisone, azathioprine, or mycophenolate mofetil.
Always talk to your neurologist about whether a specific trial makes sense for your current disease status. Talk to your doctor before making any decisions about your treatment.
What If My Insurance Denied My Medication?
MG treatments like eculizumab (Soliris) and efgartigimod (Vyvgart) are among the most expensive specialty medications available, and insurance denials are not uncommon. If your neurologist has recommended a biologic or complement inhibitor and your insurer has denied it, you have options.
A clinical trial studying the same mechanism or a similar drug may allow you to access treatment while you appeal. You can also work with an Ellen account to understand your denial, build your appeal, and identify trials that are actively recruiting.
Read more: What happens when insurance denies your specialty medication
Ellen can help you figure out your next step. Start with Ellen →
Frequently Asked Questions
Are clinical trials for myasthenia gravis free?
In most cases, yes. Trial sponsors (pharmaceutical companies, universities, or the NIH) cover the cost of the experimental treatment. You may still have costs for routine care — like doctor visits or standard tests — depending on your insurance. Always ask the trial coordinator what costs you might be responsible for before enrolling.
How do I find myasthenia gravis trials near me?
The best place to start is ClinicalTrials.gov, the official registry of all trials in the US. Search by condition name and filter by your location. Your specialist can also help identify trials at academic medical centers in your region.
Can I join a trial after being denied Soliris or Vyvgart?
Yes, and in many cases a denial can actually make you a stronger candidate — trials often enroll patients who have not responded to or cannot access standard treatments. Talk to your doctor about whether your denial history makes you eligible for open trials studying Soliris or Vyvgart or similar medications.