Key Developments

On January 5, 2024, Theravance Biopharma, Inc., a pharmaceutical company, announced results from the Phase 4 PIFR-2 study of YUPELRI (revefenacin) inhalation solution, the only once-daily, nebulized long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) approved in the U.S. for maintenance treatment of COPD. The PIFR-2 study aimed to demonstrate greater improvement in lung function for YUPELRI delivered via standard jet nebulizer as compared to Spiriva (tiotropium) delivered via a dry powder inhaler (Spiriva HandiHaler) in adults with severe to very severe COPD and suboptimal peak inspiratory flow rate (PIFR).
In November 2023, Lupin, a pharmaceutical company, announced the launch of Vilfuro-G, the world's first fixed-dose triple combination drug (FDC) for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in India. Vilfuro-G is available in a single-strength fixed dose, with a recommended once-daily dosage for the treatment of COPD, which refers to a group of diseases that cause airflow blockage and breathing-related problems.
In November 2023, Alkem, a pharmaceutical company, announced a COPD awareness campaign that focuses on promoting healthy lungs and the role of inhalation therapy. The campaign spans the country, aiming to educate the public and ensure efforts against respiratory diseases. The campaign urges employers to create safe breathing environments, citizens to promote air cleanliness, and supports research for improved care access
In May 2021, TrialSpark Inc., a tech-enabled drug development company, announced a collaboration with Sanofi, a global biopharmaceutical company, to accelerate COPD clinical development. TrialSpark's technology-enabled clinical trial platform is uniquely equipped to run challenging trials faster and more efficiently by increasing patient access to investigational medicines and dramatically expediting patient recruitment timelines