Positive results from late clinical trials for Fasenra

Using chronic oral corticosteroids for severe asthma can cause anxiety, weight gain, and diabetes amongst numerous other side effects. About 50% of severe asthma patients have higher levels of eosinophils, and the drug Fasenra (benralizumab), a monoclonal antibody, works by attaching itself to the IL-5alpha receptor on eosinophils, attracting natural killer cells which reduce and kill those white blood cells.
The BORA Phase III extension clinical trial of Fasenra, as an add-on maintenance therapy in patients with severe eosinophilic asthma that had already completed either the SIROCCO or CALIMA Phase III trials, have yielded positive results for AstraZeneca. Its safety and tolerability profile were similar to those seen in the SIROCCO and CALIMA trials, and the overall rate of annual asthma exacerbation dropped. Overall improvements in lung function, asthma control, asthma-related and general health-related quality of life scores were maintained by patients in the trial, and almost complete eosinophil depletion was evidenced in those who continuously received Fasenra.
AZ’s executive vice president, Global Medicines Development and chief medical officer, Sean Bohen, said: “The BORA data are important news for patients with severe eosinophilic asthma who need a treatment with sustained efficacy to help control their disease, and with a safety profile that supports long-term use.”