GSK has announced positive results from a Phase III trial evaluating depemokimab for the treatment of severe asthma. The study demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in the annualised rate of asthma exacerbations in patients treated with depemokimab compared to those receiving a placebo.
The trial focused on patients with severe asthma characterized by type 2 inflammation. This subgroup often experiences frequent exacerbations and has limited treatment options, representing a significant unmet medical need. The positive results suggest that depemokimab could offer a new approach to managing this challenging condition.
Depemokimab is a novel monoclonal antibody that targets interleukin-5 (IL-5), a key cytokine involved in the inflammatory cascade that leads to asthma symptoms. By blocking IL-5, depemokimab aims to reduce eosinophil levels and subsequent airway inflammation, thereby decreasing the frequency and severity of asthma exacerbations.
The detailed data from the Phase III trial will be presented at an upcoming medical conference and submitted to regulatory authorities for review. If approved, depemokimab could provide a valuable new treatment option for patients with severe asthma and type 2 inflammation.
