Forest announces data relating to “novel” COPD target

Forest has announced the results of research into oglemilast, which it has described as a “novel” therapeutic target for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Carried out with Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, the study into the therapy found that the drug was well tolerated at all doses examined.

Howard Solomon, chairman and chief executive officer of Forest Laboratories, said: “Oglemilast is an orally-administered PDE 4 inhibitor, which we believe to be an important and novel therapeutic target for COPD.”

He also noted that research is being carried out into the feasibility of using oglemilast as a treatment for asthma, explaining that results are expected to be delivered in the first three months of 2010.

“We are considering together with Glenmark what further action would be useful or appropriate,” Mr Solomon concluded.

In recent days, Forest announced a definite collaboration agreement with AstraZeneca to co-develop and market ceftaroline in a range of global markets.