AstraZeneca no longer plans to seek approval of its new respiratory biologic Fasenra in COPD after the second of two Phase 3 trials showed the drug failed to significantly reduce flare-ups of the lung condition.
“These results are disappointing because uncontrolled COPD patients already on dual or triple inhaled therapy need new treatment options,” said AstraZeneca’s Chief Medical Officer Sean Bohen in a statement, indicating the company would further analyze data from the two studies.
The British pharma announced the failure of the first Phase 3 study earlier this month. Together, the trials were meant to support expanded use of the drug, which is currently approved for severe asthma.
