First-in-Class Treatment Significantly Improves COPD Symptoms

Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) showed significant gains in bronchodilation and symptoms after using a first-in-class dual PDE3/4 inhibitor, according to study results presented at the European Respiratory Society International Congress.

Currently, patients with COPD use inhaled steroids to address inflammation and bronchodilators to ease symptoms. “This molecule addresses both features,” researcher Dave Singh, MD, of the University of Manchester in the United Kingdom, reportedly told attendees.

PDE3 inhibitors target smooth muscle restriction, while PDE4 inhibitors promote anti-inflammatory effects.

The phase 2 multicenter study Dr Singh reported on included 403 patients with moderate to severe COPD who were randomized to twice-daily RPL554 at one of four doses: 0.75 mg, 1.5 mg, 3 mg, or 6 mg. The study ran 4 weeks.

The inhaled agent sustained bronchodilation in participants, according to the report, and reduced use of rescue salbutamol. All participants discontinued bronchodilator therapy, although 39% continued inhaled steroids.

Every dose tested in the study was linked with bronchodilation that lasted at least 12 hours. The 3-mg dose, however, showed optimal sustained effects. Symptom improvement, too, was significant with all doses. In every participant group except the 0.75-mg group, use of salbutamol decreased, according to the coverage.

The dual PDE3/4 inhibitor was well tolerated and associated with no significant adverse effects.

“What remains to be seen is how much it reduces exacerbations,” Dr Singh told attendees.

—Jolynn Tumolo

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