Dupixent for COPD is currently being studied and seeking an approval for this new indication. Type 2 inflammation is present in a significant portion of patients with COPD and it increases the exacerbation risk.
A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine performed a randomized, placebo controlled phase 3 trial to investigate the efficacy of Dupixent, a monoclonal antibody that inhibits the signaling of both IL-4 and IL-13 in symptomatic patients with COPD with a blood eosinophil count of at least 300 per microliter.
The results showed that Dupixent (dupilumab) decreased the rate of exacerbations, improved lung function, quality of life and symptom control. These effects were see within 4 weeks of treatment initiation and remained in effect for the year of treatment.
This has showed that for patients with COPD, defining if they are of the TH2 variety with elevated eosinophils, Dupixent may be a treatment for them. This simple blood test can given a more personalized approach to those who have COPD.
Dupixent currently has several other indications:
Dupixent for EoE (Eosinophilic Esophagitis); FDA approved and New Dosing
Dupixent (Dupilumab) for Atopic Dermatitis/Eczema
Dupilumab for Asthma, a New Indication
and it is also working on an urticaria indication as well, Dupixent for Hives
Currently there are very limited options for patients with COPD besides several types of inhalers. Inhaled Triple Therapy for Respiratory Disease
Dupixent for COPD may be an option for patients who meet the criteria who have type 2 inflammation with elevated eosinophils above 300 which can be seen from a simple blood test, CBC with a differential.
If you have COPD and are not well controlled, speak to your doctor and if your eosinophil count is above 300, you may be candidate for Dupixent when it becomes FDA approved.
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