After releasing topline statistics, shares of Verona Pharma plc (Nasdaq: VRNA) were up 34.69% at $18.17 at the time of our last check in pre-market trading.
What summary data were supplied by VRNA?
Positive findings from the Phase 3 ENHANCE-1 study testing nebulized ensifentrine for the treatment modality of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) were released today by Verona Pharma (VRNA). The ENHANCE-1 study showed significant enhancements in lung function, symptoms, and quality of life measures, thereby meeting its primary and important secondary objectives. Ensifentrine also significantly decreased the frequency and danger of COPD flare-ups. Over 24 and 48 weeks, ensifentrine was well tolerated.
Ensifentrine is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with both bronchodilator and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory activity. It is a first-in-class, selective dual inhibitor of the phosphodiesterase 3 and 4 enzymes. With relatively few incidents arising in more than 1% of individuals and better than placebo across 24 and 48 weeks, ensifentrine was well tolerated. When compared to placebo, ensifentrine treatment dramatically reduced the chance of a modest exacerbation by 38% during the course of treatment.
The promising outcomes show ensifentrine’s potential to become a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory and first-in-class bronchodilator for COPD. It is amazing to see a 36% decrease in the frequency of exacerbations in symptomatic individuals over a period of 24 weeks. These findings support ensifentrine’s potential to alter the way that COPD patients are treated, especially when used in conjunction with the drug’s notable improvements in lung function, symptom, and quality of life metrics, as well as its favorable safety profile.
The positive results of its Phase 3 ENHANCE-1 study have moved VRNA one step closer to offering COPD patients a much needed new medication. Ensifentrine is expected to transform the way that people with COPD are treated, according to the ENHANCE data as a whole, which also shows benefits in pulmonary function, symptoms, life quality indicators, and the number of exacerbations.
How will VRNA develop going forward?
In the first half of 2023, VRNA intends to file a New Drug Application to the US Food and Drug Administration. Verona Pharma intends to provide further data from the ENHANCE studies at forthcoming academic meetings.
