An update on emerging drugs for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: a look towards 2023 and beyond

Introduction: Currently approved drug treatments for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), pirfenidone and nintedanib, have been shown to slow lung function decline and improve clinical outcomes. Since significant advances in the understanding of pathogenetic mechanisms in IPF, novel potential agents are being tested to identify new targeted and better tolerated therapeutic strategies.

Areas covered: This review describes the evidence from IPF phase II and III clinical trials that have been completed or are ongoing in recent years. The literature search was performed using Medline and Clinicaltrials.org databases. Particular attention is paid to the new inhibitor of phosphodiesterase 4B (BI 1015550), being studied in a more advanced research phase. Some emerging critical issues of the pharmacological research are highlighted considering the recent outstanding failures of several phase III trials.

Expert opinion: An exponential number of randomized clinical trials are underway testing promising new molecules to increase treatment choices for patients with IPF and improve patients' quality of life. The next goals should aim at a deeper understanding of the pathogenic pathways of the disease with the challenging goal of being able not only to stabilize but also to reverse the ongoing fibrotic process in patients with IPF.

 

Comments:

It sounds like the research in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is heading toward an exciting phase with potential new treatments on the horizon. The review you've mentioned emphasizes the ongoing and completed clinical trials, highlighting the promising inhibitors like BI 1015550, which targets phosphodiesterase 4B.

The approach to delve deeper into the mechanisms of the disease and identify potential pathways for reversal rather than just stabilization is intriguing. It reflects a broader shift in medical research toward more targeted and nuanced treatments. It's fascinating to see how the understanding of pathogenetic mechanisms is paving the way for a spectrum of new therapeutic strategies.

Given the recent setbacks in some phase III trials, it seems the field is also navigating through challenges and learnings, emphasizing the need for more comprehensive insights into the disease's pathways and mechanisms to create effective treatments.

The exponential increase in randomized clinical trials indicates a growing dedication to finding better options for patients suffering from IPF, which is truly commendable. The goal of not just slowing down but actually reversing fibrosis is ambitious but holds immense potential for transforming patients' lives.

It's a promising time in IPF research, and the efforts of researchers and clinicians seem focused on expanding treatment choices and improving the quality of life for those affected.

Related Products

Cat.No.	Product Name	Information
E1382	BI 1015550	BI 1015550 is an orally active inhibitor of PDE4B with IC50 of 7.2 nM. It has good safety and potential applications in inflammation, allergic diseases, pulmonary fibrosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Related Targets

PDE