Analysis of Phase III Spiriva trials shows benefits in Asthma
A pooled analysis of data from the Phase III UniTinA-asthma program, shows the addition of Spiriva (tiotropium bromide), from Boehringer, delivered via the Respimat inhaler to medium-dose maintenance inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) therapy improved lung function and provided sustained bronchodilation over 24 hours in patients with moderate Asthma and airflow limitation. A total of 2,103 patients were randomized to receive tiotropium 2.5 mcg or 5 mcg once daily delivered via the Respimat inhaler, salmeterol 50 mcg twice daily, or placebo, for 24 weeks.
Treatment with tiotropium (either 2.5 mcg or 5 mcg) resulted in a statistically significant improvement in the ACQ responder rate at 24 weeks compared with placebo and comparable to that of salmeterol. Adverse events were balanced across the treatment groups. Data was presented at the European Respiratory Society (ERS) Annual Congress.
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