GlaxoSmithKline and Theravance report positive COPD drug data

GlaxoSmithKline and Theravance have published positive new clinical trial data supporting the safety and efficacy of a new combination therapy for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Results from four phase III trials of the investigational LAMA/LABA regimen involving more than 4,000 patients demonstrated its efficacy in comparison to placebo, its component therapies and an alternative drug.

LAMA/LABA combines two investigational bronchodilator molecules, GSK573719 and vilanterol, and is administered via a new dry powder inhaler.

It is considered an important new addition to the companies' respiratory portfolios and could offer new benefits as a once-daily therapy for COPD patients.

Darrell Baker, senior vice-president and respiratory portfolio optimisation leader at GlaxoSmithKline, said: "Subject to successful completion of the ongoing studies, we plan to commence global regulatory filings from the end of this year."

This comes after GlaxoSmithKline completed a transaction in May 2012 to increase its ownership of Theravance to 26.7 percent of total outstanding capital stock in the company.