Verona Pharma has successfully completed a Phase 2 study of the duration of bronchodilator action by its lead drug RPL554 in patients with mild asthma, according to the company. RPL554 is a novel long-acting phosphodiesterase 3 and phosphodiesterase 4 enzyme inhibitor intended for intranasal administration, though the company has discussed MDI and DPI formulations, and testing has been taking place using a nebulized inhalation solution. The single randomized placebo-controlled study involved 12 patients over 6 days and showed that bronchodilation was sustained across the treatment period with no drug in the plasma.
Verona CEO Michael Walker commented, “The clinical studies performed so far with RPL554 have defined the actions of our drug in terms of doses that are safe and produce a clear and unequivocal bronchodilator effect. This bronchodilator effect is of value in the treatment of asthma, and possibly chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The sustained bronchodilator effect of RPL554 throughout the treatment period is an important finding, and one that we will use when selecting the dosing regimen for a further trial we are currently planning to demonstrate unequivocally the anti-inflammatory actions of RPL554.”
The company, which is looking for partners or licensees for the product, is developing RPL554 for asthma and COPD and says that is has potential for allergic rhinitis as well.
Read the Verona Pharma press release.
