AstraZeneca announced positive topline results from two Phase III clinical trials, OBERON and TITANIA, evaluating its investigational interleukin-33 (IL-33)–targeting monoclonal antibody, tozorakimab, in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The studies demonstrated statistically significant and clinically meaningful reductions in the annualized rate of moderate-to-severe COPD exacerbations compared with placebo.
The results were observed both in the primary population of former smokers and across the overall patient group, which included current and former smokers at all eosinophil counts and stages of lung function impairment. Tozorakimab was generally well tolerated and showed a favorable safety profile.
Tozorakimab, a potential first-in-class biologic, uniquely inhibits both reduced and oxidized forms of IL-33, aiming to reduce airway inflammation and mucus dysfunction—key contributors to COPD progression. In the OBERON and TITANIA trials, patients received 300 mg of tozorakimab or placebo every four weeks, in addition to standard inhaled therapy.
COPD affects nearly 400 million people worldwide and remains the third leading cause of death globally. Despite standard therapies, over half of patients continue to experience exacerbations, increasing risks of hospitalization and mortality.
Investigators described the findings as a potential major advancement in COPD treatment, addressing an area of high unmet medical need. Full results from both trials are expected to be presented at an upcoming scientific meeting. Additional studies of tozorakimab in COPD (PROSPERO and MIRANDA) and respiratory diseases including viral lower respiratory tract infection and asthma are ongoing.
Subscribe to our e-Newsletters
Stay up to date with the latest news, articles, and events. Plus, get special offers
from American Pharmaceutical Review – all delivered right to your inbox!
Sign up now!