Longer is better in COPD

Thus far, attempts to develop genuinely disease-modifying treatments for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease have failed, and COPD remains the fourth leading cause of death by disease in the U.S. Nonetheless, the use of antimuscarinics is well established in managing cholinergic airway tone, an important, reversible component of airflow resistance in the disease.

Sosei Co. Ltd., Vectura Group plc and partner Novartis AG recently released positive Phase IIb data on glycopyrrolate NVA237, an antimuscarinic that might improve disease management through its longer action, while providing a potentially better safety profile compared to existing drugs in the class...