Study Supports Added Use of Tiotropium Bromide for Asthma

Results from a new retrospective analysis have shown that patients prescribed tiotropium bromide (Spiriva Respimat) inhalation spray 1.25 mcg experienced fewer asthma-related exacerbations when the treatment was added to a combination inhaled corticosteroid and long-acting beta₂ agonist (ICS + LABA), compared with patients who received an increased dose of ICS + LABA.

Tiotropium bromide inhalation spray 1.25 mcg is a long-term, once-daily maintenance therapy for people age 6 years and older with asthma. It is not a treatment for sudden asthma symptoms or exacerbations.

The recent analysis utilized data from nearly 8000 adults and adolescents with asthma, and was presented at the Western Society of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology 2020 Annual Scientific Session in Hawaii.

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Asthma is a major issue in the United States, with approximately 25 million people living with the condition. In over 60% of adults with asthma, the condition is uncontrolled, meaning it can impair lung function, increase risk of exacerbations, reduce quality of life, and cause higher health care resource utilization and costs.

Asthma exacerbations, also known as asthma attacks, are characterized by coughing, wheezing, severe shortness of breath, and chest tightness or pain. Symptoms of an asthma attack can often be managed with prompt at-home therapy, but severe exacerbations can become life-threatening, and require emergency care.

The study found that when tiotropium bromide inhalation spray was added to ICS + LABA treatment, patients had significantly fewer exacerbations, ultimately meeting the study’s primary endpoint.

Specifically, at 12 months, patients prescribed add-on tiotropium bromide inhalation therapy showed a 73% lower exacerbation rate compared to patients prescribed an increased dose of ICS + LABA. Also at 12 months, patients with add-on tiotropium bromide therapy showed a 76% lower hospitalization rate compared with patients prescribed an increased dose of ICS + LABA.

“Exacerbations are a common worry for those living with asthma,” said Bradley Chipps, MD, an investigator and coauthor of the study. “Their sudden onset can be alarming to patients and their caregivers, which is why we aim to prevent them with treatment.”

REFERENCE

New Study Further Supports the Benefits of SPIRIVA RESPIMAT in the Treatment of Asthma [news release]. Ridgefield, Conn; Feb 3, 2020. PR Newswire; prnewsire.com/news-releases/new-study-further-supports-the-benefits-of-spiriva-respimat-in-the-treatment-of-asthma-300996550.html?tc=eml_cleartime. Accessed Feb 4, 2020.