GSK presented findings from its respiratory portfolio at the European Respiratory Society (ERS) International Congress, highlighting the potential of depemokimab, an ultra-long-acting biologic, in treating severe asthma. The SWIFT-1 and SWIFT-2 phase III trials demonstrated the efficacy and safety of depemokimab compared to placebo in adults and adolescents with severe asthma characterized by type 2 inflammation and elevated blood eosinophil counts. This research underscores GSK's ambition to redefine respiratory medicine by aiming for clinical remission in asthma patients.
Depemokimab's Impact on Severe Asthma
Depemokimab stands out as the first ultra-long-acting biologic evaluated in phase III trials for severe asthma. Its high binding affinity and potency for interleukin-5 (IL-5) enable a six-month dosing schedule, potentially improving patient adherence and convenience. The SWIFT-1 and SWIFT-2 trials assessed depemokimab's efficacy and safety, with detailed results presented at the ERS congress. These long-acting treatments aim to provide sustained suppression of the underlying disease drivers, which could lead to better outcomes and reduced disease progression over extended periods.
Clinical Remission as a Treatment Goal
GSK's presentation at ERS also included data on Nucala (mepolizumab), reinforcing the role of IL-5 targeting in asthma management. A key focus was achieving clinical remission in severe asthma patients with type 2 inflammation. Additional research explored characteristics influencing clinical remission and the role of biologic therapy in attaining this goal. Furthermore, data on Trelegy (fluticasone furoate/umeclidinium/vilanterol) examined clinical remission as a treatment target in various types and severities of asthma.
Advancing COPD Treatment
Beyond asthma, GSK presented a post-hoc analysis from the METREX and METREO trials, evaluating the effect of Nucala in COPD patients with or without chronic bronchitis. The study design of MATINEE, a third clinical study of Nucala in COPD, was also presented. MATINEE included COPD patients with chronic bronchitis and/or emphysema, along with evidence of type 2 inflammation. Research also supported the use of Trelegy in COPD, specifically focusing on disease stability as a realistic treatment goal.
