Depemokimab for Asthma
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to test how a new treatment, depemokimab, affects the lungs of people with asthma. The focus is on those with type 2 inflammation, a specific type of asthma characterized by high levels of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell. The trial seeks participants who have had asthma for more than two years, experience frequent flare-ups, and continue to have symptoms despite using asthma medications. As a Phase 3 trial, this study represents the final step before FDA approval, offering participants a chance to contribute to the development of a potentially groundbreaking treatment.
Do I need to stop my current medications for the trial?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop your current medications. However, you must be on regular treatment with medium or high dose inhaled corticosteroids and at least one additional asthma controller medication for at least 3 months before joining the trial.
Is there any evidence suggesting that depemokimab is likely to be safe for humans?
Research has shown that depemokimab is generally well-tolerated and significantly improves asthma symptoms compared to a placebo. Designed for twice-yearly use, the treatment offers convenience. Although detailed reports of serious side effects are lacking, its development as a long-acting biological drug involved rigorous safety testing. Since this study is in Phase 3, earlier phases have already provided evidence of its safety for humans.12345
Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising for asthma?
Depemokimab is unique because it specifically targets type 2 inflammation in asthma, which is different from many existing treatments that often focus on broad symptom relief or bronchodilation. Unlike traditional options like inhaled corticosteroids or bronchodilators, Depemokimab acts by inhibiting interleukin-5, a key player in the inflammatory process. Researchers are excited about this treatment because it offers a more targeted approach, potentially leading to better control of asthma symptoms with fewer side effects.
What evidence suggests that depemokimab might be an effective treatment for asthma?
Research has shown that depemokimab, the treatment under study in this trial, can significantly benefit people with asthma, particularly those with type 2 inflammation linked to high levels of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell. In earlier studies, participants using depemokimab experienced 54% fewer severe asthma flare-ups, meaning fewer sudden attacks or worsening of symptoms. The treatment also offered long-lasting control of inflammation, helping to keep airways open and reduce asthma symptoms. Overall, depemokimab has demonstrated strong results in improving asthma management.12367
Who Is on the Research Team?
GSK Clinical Trials
Principal Investigator
GlaxoSmithKline
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults with asthma diagnosed at least 2 years ago, showing signs of type 2 inflammation (eosinophil count >=300 cells/mcL and FeNO >=25 ppb). They must have had at least two severe episodes in the past year despite using medium to high dose inhalers. Women must not be pregnant or breastfeeding and use effective contraception. Participants need uncontrolled asthma indicated by an ACQ-5 score >1.5.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive depemokimab to assess its effect on lung structure and function
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Depemokimab
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
GlaxoSmithKline
Lead Sponsor
Dame Emma Walmsley
GlaxoSmithKline
Chief Executive Officer since 2017
MA in Classics and Modern Languages from Oxford University
Dr. Hal Barron
GlaxoSmithKline
Chief Medical Officer since 2018
MD from Harvard Medical School