Forest Laboratories and Almirall report positive COPD drug data

Forest Laboratories and Almirall have reported positive findings from a recent phase III trial of a promising new therapy approach for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Positive topline results from the six-month pivotal phase III clinical trial have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of fixed-dose combinations of aclidinium bromide and formoterol fumarate delivered by Almirall's Genuair inhaler.

Both primary endpoints in the study were successfully met, suggesting this new treatment can be a valuable option for COPD patients in future.

Data from this trial, in combination with results from a second phase III study expected in the coming weeks, will help support forthcoming regulatory filings for the therapy.

Dr Marco Taglietti, president of the Forest Research Institute, said: "We have demonstrated the superior improvement in lung function that can be achieved by combining two proven bronchodilators with complementary modes of action."

Earlier this month, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence announced that Forest's Colobreathe treatment for lung infections in people with cystic fibrosis has been approved in the UK for use within the NHS.