(RxWiki News) Patients with moderate-to-severe COPD may have a new treatment option on the way. A new drug has been generating positive results in clinical trials and could improve lung function and ease symptoms.
Phase 2b clinical trials of Glycopyrrolate (GP MDI; PT001) have been successful so far. Using GP MDI twice a day via inhaler showed significant improvements in lung function when compared to a placebo. These positive results mean GP MDI could be begin Phase III trials in 2012.
"Ask your doctor about clinical trials. "
Phase 2b clinical testing evaluates the drug's effectiveness at the prescribed dosage. The clinical trial tested the effective of four doses of GP MDI against four doses of a placebo and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved COPD treatment, Atrovent.
GP MDI's results were similar to Atrovent. Additionally, GP MDI was considered safe and was well-tolerated among patients. A phase 3 trial would begin in 2012. Phase 3 trials test the drug on a much larger population and against the best current FDA-approved treatment.
GP MDI is an interesting candidate because it is quicker acting than long-acting beta-adrenoceptor agonist (LABA). LABA's, such as Advair, work over a long period of time, up to 12 hours. LABA's would be used as an alternative to multiple doses of an inhaled corticosteroid.
GP MDI is a Long-Acting Muscarinic Agonist (LAMA) which could be combined with a LABA to improve treatment.
According to Chuck Bramlage, chief executive officer for Pearl Therapeutics, GP MDI can help fill a gap in COPD treatment because there is no quicker alternative to the sustained treatment of a LAMA. Mr. Bramlage says,
“A significant part of the very large COPD market is driven by the use of BID (twice daily) LABAs and inhaled corticosteroids. However, a rapid-acting, BID LAMA to complement these options is not yet available.”
GP MDI will be used in combination with a LABA for a combined treatment called PT003. With successful results in a Phase 3 trial, PT003 can be marketed and sold but will continue to be evaluated for safety and effectiveness.
GP MDI could be a new treatment for moderate-to-severe COPD pending future clinical trial results. Considering how deadly COPD is, any new treatment is eagerly anticipated.
