Feeling winded after climbing stairs can be a normal physiological response because stairs demand more oxygen and energy, but new or prolonged breathlessness warrants medical evaluation to rule out underlying conditions such as heart failure, obesity, COPD, or anemia. If recovery is quick, it’s usually not concerning; if breathing stays elevated for more than about three minutes or is accompanied by chest pain, headaches, or vision changes, consult a doctor. To improve stair endurance, gradually train and strengthen the muscles involved while addressing any medical issues first.
A new study highlights that COPD can affect people under 50, with 4.5% of adults in this age group diagnosed, and that early onset COPD is linked to higher risks of hospitalization and death. Smoking remains the primary risk factor, but non-smokers can also develop COPD. Early diagnosis and lifestyle changes, including quitting smoking and vaccination, are crucial for managing the disease and improving outcomes.
GSK and Hengrui Pharma have entered into agreements to develop up to 12 innovative medicines, including a potential best-in-class PDE3/4 inhibitor for COPD, with GSK paying $500 million upfront and the potential for up to $12 billion in milestone payments, aiming to expand their pipelines in respiratory, immunology, inflammation, and oncology.
Merck is acquiring Verona Pharma for approximately $10 billion to expand its portfolio with Ohtuvayre, a first-in-class COPD treatment approved by the FDA, aiming to enhance growth and innovation in respiratory therapies.
A recent study found that people with COPD have significantly more carbon particles in their lungs than smokers, with larger and more carbon-laden alveolar macrophages, indicating greater soot accumulation in COPD patients.
Sly Stone, the influential funk musician and leader of Sly and the Family Stone, has died at age 82 due to COPD and other health issues. He was known for his pioneering blend of funk, R&B, and soul, and his band's impactful music and flamboyant style. His family expressed sadness but celebrated his enduring musical legacy.
A key Phase 3 trial of Regeneron and Sanofi's COPD drug, itepekimab, failed to meet its primary endpoint, causing a significant drop in their stock prices, although one of the two trials showed a meaningful benefit. The companies are reviewing the data and consulting with regulators to determine next steps.
Regeneron Pharmaceuticals' stock dropped 17% after its late-stage trials for the COPD drug itepekimab only partially met goals, with one study showing some benefit and the other failing to meet primary endpoints, leading to concerns about the drug's future and impacting investor sentiment.
Regeneron Pharmaceuticals' stock dropped 12% after its COPD drug, developed with Sanofi, failed in a Phase 3 trial, with mixed results across two studies, potentially hindering approval efforts.
A new clinical trial has shown that the antibody drug benralizumab can significantly reduce asthma and COPD flare-ups, outperforming standard steroid treatments. Conducted by scientists in the UK, Australia, and Sweden, the trial found that patients receiving benralizumab experienced fewer treatment failures and hospital visits. Benralizumab, developed by AstraZeneca, targets eosinophils, white blood cells that contribute to asthma and COPD symptoms. The findings suggest benralizumab could become the first new treatment for these conditions in 50 years, pending further large-scale studies.
A new study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine reveals that benralizumab, a monoclonal antibody, may be a breakthrough treatment for asthma and COPD flare-ups, offering a safer alternative to steroids like prednisolone. The trial showed that benralizumab significantly reduced treatment failure rates and improved patient outcomes, with fewer side effects compared to steroids. While benralizumab is already used for long-term asthma management, further phase 3 trials are needed to approve its use during flare-ups.
British scientists have tested a new treatment for asthma attacks and COPD, marking the first advancement in 50 years. The drug, benralizumab, is a monoclonal antibody that targets eosinophils to reduce lung inflammation and has shown to be more effective than traditional steroid tablets, reducing the need for further treatment by 30%. This could be a significant breakthrough for millions suffering from these conditions, as the treatment has fewer side effects and can potentially be administered at home.
A new clinical trial has shown that benralizumab, a monoclonal antibody, is more effective than steroids in reducing symptoms of asthma and COPD flare-ups. The drug, already approved for severe asthma, targets eosinophils, white blood cells that cause lung inflammation. Participants in the trial experienced fewer attacks and improved quality of life compared to those on steroids. This development could revolutionize treatment for asthma and COPD, which have seen little change in treatment options over the past fifty years.
Researchers at King's College London have discovered a new treatment for asthma attacks, marking the first advancement in 50 years. The drug, benralizumab, targets eosinophils, a type of white blood cell involved in inflammation, and has shown promise in reducing treatment failure rates compared to steroids. While not yet ready for widespread use, the drug could potentially revolutionize care for asthma and COPD patients, pending further trials. Participants in the study reported fewer side effects and improved quality of life.
A new treatment using the monoclonal antibody benralizumab has shown significant promise in managing severe asthma and COPD attacks, marking the first major breakthrough in 50 years. The treatment, which involves a higher single dose injection during flare-ups, was found to be more effective than traditional steroid tablets, reducing the need for further treatment by 30% and improving patients' quality of life. This advancement could transform care for millions worldwide, offering a safer alternative with fewer side effects than steroids.