Dupilumab improves asthma control and lung function significantly

In a recent clinical trial, the drug dupilumab showed positive effects for patients with moderate to severe type 2 asthma. The study highlighted its ability to reduce inflammation and improve lung function. Researchers conducted this phase 4 trial at 72 sites in 14 countries between July 2020 and January 2023. A total of 109 patients, most of whom were already taking inhaled corticosteroids, received either dupilumab or a placebo every two weeks for 24 weeks. The results indicated that patients taking dupilumab had better asthma control. By the end of the trial, they were significantly more likely to have lower levels of fractional exhaled nitric oxide, an indicator of inflammation. Improvements were also seen in airway volume and mucus levels. While the trial noted that dupilumab improved lung function and reduced mucus scores, not all findings were statistically significant. Some benefits became noticeable as early as four weeks into treatment. Adverse effects were similar between the two groups, with no deaths reported. The lead author emphasized that the study demonstrated dupilumab's ability to reduce mucus in patients with uncontrolled asthma. However, it also faced limitations, including a lack of diversity among participants and possible inaccuracies in lung assessments. The study received support from Sanofi and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, and some researchers reported financial connections to various healthcare companies.