inhaler help influenza clinical trial

Inhaler helps influenza clinical trial
23 April 2009



Daiichi Sankyo (Japan) is using Hovione’s (Portugal) TwinCaps dry powder inhaler device for its inhaled, long-acting neuraminidase inhibitor active against the influenza virus. Patient enrollment for Phase III clinical trials in Japan and other Asian countries has been completed, and results are expected to be released mid year, along with data to confirm the device switching. Recently, the compound was shown to be as effective as Biota Holdings's Relenza and Roche's Tamiflu against various influenza strains. Significantly, this efficacy is achieved with a single dose, as opposed to a 5-day treatment for the established drugs.


Hovione believes the inhaler is the simplest being tested in clinical trials. As it only requires a low inspiratory airflow to achieve optimal delivery to the lung, it will also make it easier for children and the elderly to inhale the full dose.


Daiichi Sankyo has indicated it is planning to file a New Drug Application in Japan in March 2010. Daiichi Sankyo and Biota are also seeking licensees for the drug product collaboratively for the rest of world market. However, Hovione will retain the right to commercialize the inhaler outside the field of influenza.


www.hovione.com