GlaxoSmithKline COPD Triple Combination Study Shows Improved Lung Function Vs Rival

By Ian Walker

LONDON--Pharmaceutical giant GlaxoSmithKline PLC (GSK.LN) and Innoviva Inc. (INVA) said Monday a study of a triple combination therapy that mixes FF, UMEC and VI showed improved lung function and health-related quality of life in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, compared with rival treatment Symbicort(R) Turbohaler(R).

Glaxo said the findings from the study, named 'fulfil,' support its plans for an European Union regulatory submission of the combination therapy by the end of 2016. It also plans to submit a new drug application for the therapy to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration by the end of 2016.

"We are delighted with the outcome of the fulfil study, which marks a further step towards making this closed triple combination therapy available to appropriate patients with COPD," Glaxo's head of respiratory R&D Dave Allen said.

"Triple combination therapy is already a reality for many patients with COPD and is dispensed in multiple inhalers. By combining three medicines in a single inhaler we can offer a convenient, once-daily dosing option to patients while improving their symptoms," he said.

-Write to Ian Walker at [e-mail]; @IanWalk40289749

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

June 20, 2016 02:47 ET (06:47 GMT)

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