What's happened
A recent clinical trial reveals that benralizumab, an injection targeting eosinophils, is more effective than traditional steroid treatments for asthma and COPD flare-ups. This breakthrough could transform care for millions, marking the first significant advancement in 50 years.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to BBC News, the trial led by King's College London found that benralizumab could revolutionize asthma and COPD treatment, with Prof. Mona Bafadhel stating, "This is a game-changer... we’ve not had a change in treatment for 50 years." The Independent echoed this sentiment, highlighting that the injection is more effective than steroid tablets and reduces treatment failure rates significantly. The Guardian emphasized the potential for benralizumab to be administered in various healthcare settings, which could improve patient access to effective treatment. Overall, the consensus among sources is that this breakthrough could transform care for millions suffering from these conditions.
How we got here
Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have seen little innovation in treatment for decades. Current therapies primarily involve steroid tablets, which can have severe side effects. Recent research has identified eosinophils as key players in exacerbations, leading to the exploration of benralizumab as a new treatment option.
More on these topics
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Benralizumab, sold under the brand name Fasenra, is a monoclonal antibody directed against the alpha chain of the interleukin-5 receptor (CD125). It was developed by MedImmune for the treatment of asthma.
Two phase III clinical trials of benralizumab...
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King's College London is a public research university located in London, United Kingdom, and a founding college and member institution of the federal University of London.
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AstraZeneca PLC is a British-Swedish multinational pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical company with its global headquarters in Cambridge, England. Its R&D is concentrated in Cambridge, England, Mölndal in Sweden and North America.