Researchers at King’s College London have identified benralizumab as the first new treatment for asthma attacks in half a century, offering hope to millions suffering from asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
The injectable drug targets a specific immune response that plays a critical role in severe respiratory flare-ups, potentially transforming the way these conditions are managed.
Benralizumab, a monoclonal antibody already used in severe asthma cases, has shown promising results in a recent clinical trial. It targets eosinophils, a type of white blood cell that contributes to lung inflammation. By dampening the immune system’s overreaction, the drug reduced the failure rate of treatment from 74% with traditional steroids to 45%.
Professor Mona Bafadhel, lead investigator of the study, emphasized the significance of the findings:
“This is a game-changer. We’ve not had a change in treatment for 50 years, and it could revolutionize how we treat people when they’re really unwell.”
The study, involving 158 patients, demonstrated that those treated with benralizumab experienced fewer hospital admissions and improved overall quality of life. Patients also reported fewer side effects compared to those on steroids, which can lead to complications like diabetes, osteoporosis, and insomnia.
Alison Spooner, a trial participant with lifelong asthma, described the impact of the treatment:
“The severe lack of breath was frightening, but after the injection, I felt drastically different. It’s a bit of a miracle, actually.”
Another participant, Geoffrey Pointing, noted the benefits of the new therapy over traditional steroid treatments:
“I didn’t get the usual side effects like insomnia. I could sleep well and carry on with my life.”
Asthma and COPD remain major global health concerns, with an estimated four asthma-related deaths and 85 COPD-related deaths occurring daily in the UK alone. Current treatments primarily rely on steroids, which are not always effective and pose significant risks when used long-term.
Dr. Samantha Walker from Asthma + Lung UK highlighted the urgency of the breakthrough:
“It’s appalling that this is the first new treatment in 50 years. This research shows massive promise, and it’s critical that we continue to invest in lung health.”
While benralizumab has shown immense potential, it is not yet ready for widespread use. A larger clinical trial scheduled for 2025 will further evaluate its efficacy and cost-effectiveness. Experts remain optimistic about its potential to improve the lives of millions living with asthma and COPD worldwide.
Dr. Sanjay Ramakrishnan of the University of Oxford underscored the importance of the findings:
“This study could mark the beginning of a new era in asthma and COPD treatment, shifting us beyond the limitations of steroids to more targeted, effective care.”
