Sanofi’s biologic therapy for children with asthma TGA registered

Pharma News: Sanofi’s biologic medicine proven has been registered in Australia for children with moderate-to-severe asthma.

In the Voyage phase 3 trial, Dupixent (dupilumab) plus standard-of-care asthma therapy significantly cut asthma attacks over one year and improved lung function within two weeks in children ages 6 to 11 with moderate-to-severe asthma, compared with standard care. Sanofi believes the drug could be a “best-in-class” option for these young patients.

Professor Connie Katelaris, Immunologist/Allergist at Campbelltown Hospital in NSW, said “Despite treatment advances, there are children with severe asthma that remain uncontrolled. The availability of another therapy that helps control the condition while reducing reliance on systemic corticosteroids is very welcome.”

“The improvements in lung function and reduction in asthma exacerbations offered by Dupixent have the potential to make this a potential treatment of choice for many paediatric patients,” she said.

Dupixent is registered for use for a range of type 2 inflammatory conditions in more than 60 countries around the world. More than 400,000 patients have been treated globally.

Sanofi Australia and New Zealand Head of Medical, Specialty Care, Dr Kasia Siwek, said “The robust data underpinning multiple indications in asthma for Dupixent, and the ability to reduce reliance on corticosteroids, make Dupixent a compelling proposition to treat younger patients with uncontrolled asthma.

“Dupixent is the first and only therapy available for patients with uncontrolled moderate-to-severe asthma which blocks the IL-4 and IL-13 proteins responsible for the excessive immune reaction,” she said.

“We are committed to working with the Federal Government to ensure that paediatric patients with uncontrolled severe asthma who can benefit from Dupixent are able to access this therapy,” said Dr Siwek.