Ensifentrine as a Novel, Inhaled Treatment for Patients with COPD

Abstract

Ensifentrine is a novel, potent, and selective dual inhibitor of phosphodiesterase (PDE)3 and PDE4 designed for delivery by inhalation that combines effects on airway inflammation, bronchodilation and ciliary function in bronchial epithelia. In Phase 2 studies in subjects with COPD, ensifentrine demonstrated clinically meaningful bronchodilation and improvements in symptoms and health-related quality of life when administered alone or in combination with current standard of care therapies. Ensifentrine is currently in late-stage clinical development for the maintenance treatment of patients with COPD. This review summarizes non-clinical data as well as Phase 1 and Phase 2 efficacy and safety results of nebulized ensifentrine relevant to the maintenance treatment of patients with COPD.

Keywords:

• RPL554
• nebulized therapy
• chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• clinical efficacy
• drug development

Author Contributions

All authors made a significant contribution to the work reported, whether that is in the conception, study design, execution, acquisition of data, analysis and interpretation, or in all these areas; took part in drafting, revising or critically reviewing the article; gave final approval of the version to be published; have agreed on the journal to which the article has been submitted; and agree to be accountable for all aspects of the work.

Disclosure

Margot MacDonald-Berko, Tara Rheault, PhD, and Kathleen Rickard, MD are employees and shareholders of Verona Pharma. Thomas Bengtsson is a paid statistical consultant for Verona Pharma. James F Donohue, MD has consultant and advisory board relationships with Verona Pharma. Dr Kathleen Rickard has a patent Various pending to unknown. The authors report no other conflicts of interest in this work.

Additional information

Funding

All clinical studies described in this review were funded by Verona Pharma plc.