GSK has received FDA approval to expand the use of its respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine, Arexvy, to include adults aged 50-59 who are at increased risk of RSV disease. This decision marks Arexvy as the first RSV vaccine available for this specific age group, addressing a significant unmet need for vulnerable individuals.
Clinical Evidence Supporting Approval
The FDA's approval was based on data from a Phase III clinical trial. The study demonstrated that immune responses in adults aged 50-59 with increased risk factors were non-inferior to those observed in adults aged 60 and older. This finding supports the vaccine's efficacy and safety profile in the younger at-risk population.
Target Population and Disease Burden
In the United States, over 13 million adults aged 50-59 are considered at increased risk for RSV disease due to underlying medical conditions. These conditions include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, heart failure, and diabetes. RSV can exacerbate these conditions, leading to severe respiratory complications and hospitalizations. The expanded approval aims to mitigate these risks by providing a preventive measure for this vulnerable group.
Market Performance and Competition
Arexvy has shown strong market performance since its initial launch, generating £1.2 billion in sales in 2023. In the first quarter of 2024, sales reached £182 million, aligning with anticipated seasonality patterns. GSK anticipates continued growth, projecting annual sales exceeding £3 billion over time. Pfizer's RSV vaccine, Abrysvo, is also available, recording $890 million in sales in 2023. Pfizer is seeking approval for expanded use in adults aged 18-59 based on positive Phase III trial results.
Ongoing Research and Future Expansion
GSK is currently conducting clinical studies to evaluate Arexvy's use in adults aged 18-49, with data read-outs expected in the second half of the year. These efforts indicate a commitment to broadening the vaccine's availability and impact across different age groups.
