GlaxoSmithKline reports positive data from COPD drug trials

GlaxoSmithKline has announced the publication of new clinical trial data that demonstrates the strong performance of mepolizumab in treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Results of the METREX and METREO studies have been published in the New England Journal of Medicine showing that the biologic medicine, when added to maximal guideline-recommended therapy, was able to reduce exacerbations in eosinophilic COPD patients.

It was also shown that rates of exacerbation reduction increased as blood eosinophil counts rose, showing the latter could be a useful biomarker to help identify COPD patients most likely to respond to treatment with mepolizumab.

Steve Yancey, vice-president and medicine development lead for mepolizumab at GlaxoSmithKline, said: "Based on the clinically meaningful reductions in exacerbations shown in these studies, we plan to progress regulatory filings this year."

Mepolizumab is a first-in-class monoclonal antibody that targets the signalling protein IL-5, and is sold under the brand name Nucala as a treatment for severe eosinophilic asthma in Europe. It has not yet been approved for use anywhere in the world for COPD.

With over 20 years of experience within the pharmaceutical market, we at Zenopa have the knowledge, skills and expertise to help find the right job for you. To find out more about the current pharmaceutical roles we have available, you can search for the latest job roles, register your details, or contact the team today.