Patients with COPD who received the anticholinergic, Incruse Ellipta (umeclidinium (UMEC) 62.5mcg), or umeclidinium 125mcg (an unlicensed dose) in addition to the ICS/LABA combo Breo Ellipta (fluticasone furoate/vilanterol, “FF/VI”), achieved an additional improvement in lung function (FEV1) compared to patients receiving FF/VI plus placebo, according to results from two phase III studies by GlaxoSmithKline and Theravance.

The studies showed that for the primary endpoint of trough FEV1 at Day 85, the addition of UMEC 62.5 mcg or UMEC 125mcg to FF/VI 100/25mcg resulted in a statistically significant improvement in lung function when compared with FF/VI 100/25mcg plus placebo in patients with COPD.

“These data are an important addition to the evidence base supporting the efficacy and safety of Incruse. These studies are also the first to investigate the combined effect of two of the newest medicines from our respiratory portfolio, both of which provide 24 hour efficacy.” said Darrell Baker, SVP and Head, Global Respiratory Franchise, GSK. “We will continue to progress our research to expand our understanding of how the combined use of these medicines may provide physicians with another treatment approach to meet the individual needs of their patients.”