Altesa BioSciences Reports Positive Phase 2 Vapendavir Results in COPD Rhinovirus Study

Altesa BioSciences has unveiled promising results from a Phase 2 study evaluating vapendavir's impact on COPD patients infected with rhinovirus. Conducted in a placebo-controlled manner, the study demonstrated that vapendavir significantly improved patient-reported respiratory symptoms, both upper and lower, and shortened the overall illness duration. The antiviral treatment also resulted in reduced viral loads and faster viral resolution in patients' respiratory systems.

"This is a landmark study showing that an antiviral can positively affect both upper and lower respiratory symptoms caused by rhinovirus, the leading cause of COPD exacerbations," stated Dr. Kate Knobil, Altesa's chief medical officer. With the benefits observed across various parameters, vapendavir holds transformative potential for the millions suffering from COPD globally.

Rhinovirus is a primary trigger for COPD flare-ups, responsible for over 45% of exacerbations in these patients, according to Dr. Brett Giroir, CEO of Altesa BioSciences. The company aims to tackle these viral infections with a safe, effective oral pill, stopping the virus before it causes severe consequences, potentially saving lives and reducing healthcare costs significantly.

Vapendavir is an oral antiviral that prevents rhinoviruses and related viruses from invading human cells and replicating. This broad-spectrum medication shows efficacy against 97% of tested rhinoviruses and other respiratory enteroviruses. Currently, it is the only direct-acting antiviral for rhinovirus in human clinical trials, with Altesa holding exclusive global rights for its development and commercialization.

The rhinovirus challenge study was executed by VirTus Respiratory Research Ltd. in London, co-led by Professor Sebastian Johnston and Dr. Michael Edwards, in collaboration with Imperial College London and St. Mary's Hospital. VirTus is unique in conducting such studies for COPD, with Johnston spearheading safe trials since 2006.

The study was designed to closely replicate real-world COPD patient experiences, initiating treatment only after symptom onset. Participants were not confined during the study but lived in their normal environment after clinic visits. They were diagnosed with Stage 2 COPD and selected based on criteria ensuring a temporary illness worsening from rhinovirus infection. Typically, an upper respiratory illness developed by the second day post-challenge, followed by lower respiratory symptoms. Vapendavir treatment commenced post-illness onset and lasted seven days, demonstrating good tolerance and safety, with fewer adverse events than the placebo group.

More detailed findings from the Challenge Study are to be presented at an upcoming medical congress.

Vapendavir is an antiviral medication with potent activity against rhinoviruses and other respiratory enteroviruses. It works by blocking viral entry and reproduction in human cells. Currently in advanced trials for rhinovirus infections in COPD patients, vapendavir's mechanism resembles that of lenacapavir, an FDA-approved HIV capsid inhibitor marketed by Gilead Sciences.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive lung disease affecting over 16.4 million Americans and ranks among the leading causes of death worldwide. Often diagnosed late, particularly in resource-limited areas, COPD is associated with poor outcomes.

Altesa BioSciences focuses on developing treatments for high-impact viral infections, especially those affecting vulnerable populations with chronic conditions. VirTus Respiratory Research Ltd is a research organization accelerating the development of novel treatments for respiratory viral infections, contributing significantly to the management of chronic lung diseases through unique human virus challenge studies.