Ensifentrine as a Novel, Inhaled Treatment for Patients with COPD

Int J Chron Obstruct Pulmon Dis. 2023 Jul 28:18:1611-1622. doi: 10.2147/COPD.S413436. eCollection 2023.

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; chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; clinical efficacy; drug development; nebulized therapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Inhalation
  • Bronchodilator Agents
  • Humans
  • Isoquinolines / pharmacology
  • Phosphodiesterase 4 Inhibitors*
  • Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive* / chemically induced
  • Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive* / diagnosis
  • Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive* / drug therapy
  • Quality of Life

Substances

  • ensifentrine
  • Phosphodiesterase 4 Inhibitors
  • Isoquinolines
  • Bronchodilator Agents

Grants and funding

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