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GlaxoSmithKline’s application for approval of mepolizumab as an add-on therapy to reduce exacerbations in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) requires more clinical data, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said in a complete response letter. GSK sought approval for mepolizumab as an add-on to inhaled corticosteroid-based maintenance treatments used…

Testosterone replacement therapy can help slow the progression of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in men, a new study shows. Men with COPD tend to experience shortness of breath, leading physicians to prescribe them long-term steroid-based medications. While these medications help treat pulmonary symptoms, they are also associated with…

Electronic cigarettes help reduce exacerbations and improve exercise capacity in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who saw their condition get worse by smoking conventional cigarettes, a new study reports. The study, “Health effects in COPD smokers who switch to electronic cigarettes: a retrospective-prospective 3-year follow-up” was…

AstraZeneca’s Bevespi Aerosphere (glycopyrrolate/formoterol fumarate) has been shown to have similar therapeutic activity in patients with moderate to very severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) as GlaxoSmithKline’s approved therapy Anoro Elipta (umeclidinium/vilanterol). Bevespi Aerosphere combines a fixed dose of two bronchodilators — glycopyrrolate, a…

A specific gene variation associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is also linked with autoimmune disorders, according to a large genetic study, suggesting a role for autoimmune responses in the development of COPD. The study, “A Phenome-Wide Association Study Uncovers a Role for Autoimmunity in the…