GSK's depemokimab shows positive results in severe asthma trials

GSK plc has announced positive headline results from two Phase III clinical trials, SWIFT-1 and SWIFT-2, investigating depemokimab in adults and adolescents with severe asthma and type 2 inflammation. Both trials met their primary endpoints, achieving a statistically significant and clinically meaningful reduction in the annualized rate of clinically significant asthma exacerbations over 52 weeks, compared to placebo. The incidence and severity of treatment-emergent adverse events were similar between the depemokimab and placebo groups.

Depemokimab is presented as the first ultra-long-acting biologic to reach Phase III trials, designed with a high binding affinity for interleukin-5 (IL-5) to potentially enable six-month dosing. IL-5 is identified as a key cytokine driving type 2 inflammation, which accounts for over 80% of severe asthma cases and can lead to unpredictable exacerbations. This inflammation is often characterized by elevated blood eosinophil counts.

Kaivan Khavandi, SVP, Global Head of Respiratory/Immunology R&D at GSK, stated that these results add to the evidence supporting IL-5 inhibition's role in reducing type 2 inflammation. He highlighted that a six-month dosing schedule, equating to two injections per year, could significantly simplify treatment for patients, noting that research indicates a majority of physicians find longer dosing intervals beneficial.

GSK plans to present full results from the SWIFT-1 and SWIFT-2 trials at an upcoming scientific congress and will use the data to support regulatory submissions worldwide. Depemokimab is not currently approved anywhere. The company is also evaluating depemokimab for other IL-5-mediated diseases.