Novartis publishes positive new Onbrez Breezhaler data

Novartis has published new clinical data that reinforces the benefits of its chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) drug Onbrez Breezhaler.

Data from the Intensity clinical study shows that Novartis' therapy is able to deliver similar efficacy to a leading alternative in terms of improving lung function, while performing better in reducing shortness of breath and improving capacity for day-to-day activities.

A total of 1,598 patients with moderate-to-severe COPD were enrolled in the study, which was able to meet its primary and secondary endpoint goals as a result of these findings.

The purpose of the trial was to show that Onbrez Breezhaler can expand the range of therapeutic options available to sufferers of COPD.

Dr Jerome Kerrane at the Layton Medical Centre in Blackpool noted: "Shortness of breath is the hallmark symptom of COPD and is the reason that most patients seek medical attention."

This comes after the firm published data last week showing the benefits of another COPD drug, NVA237, which will be marketed under the brand name Seebri Breezhaler should it be approved.