FLAME study of Ultibro Breezhaler (indacaterol/glycopyrronium bromide) shows efficacy in patient sub groups in COPD-Novartis

New analyses from the head-to-head FLAME study confirmed that Ultibro Breezhaler (indacaterol/glycopyrronium bromide), from Novartis, is a more effective option for patients at risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) flare-ups (exacerbations) than Seretide, across different patient sub-groups. In the new analyses, once-daily Ultibro Breezhaler 110/50 mcg demonstrated consistent reductions in the rate of all exacerbations (mild, moderate and severe), regardless of age, smoking status, exacerbation history, disease severity, eosinophil levels (a type of white blood cells) and previous inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) use, versus twice-daily Seretide 50/500 mcg.

Specifically, among patients with the severest forms of COPD, Ultibro Breezhaler significantly reduced the rate of exacerbations and improved their health status versus the commonly used ICS/LABA combination. In addition, patients using Ultibro Breezhaler needed less rescue medication during the day. These findings are being presented at the 2016 European Respiratory Society (ERS) International Congress.

Comment: Earlier this year, the results from our major FLAME study demonstrated that Ultibro Breezhaler is superior to Seretide in reducing exacerbations and improving lung function. These new analyses of the data show the consistency of these findings across different patient sub-groups, including a post-hoc analysis in those previously using a triple therapy containing an ICS.