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Matera MG, Rinaldi B, Belardo C, Calzetta L, Cazzola M. Pharmacokinetic considerations surrounding triple therapy for uncontrolled asthma. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2023; 19:345-355. [PMID: 37376964 DOI: 10.1080/17425255.2023.2230130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Solid pharmacological rationale and clinical evidence support the use of a combination of an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS), a long-acting β2-agonist, and a long-acting muscarinic antagonist in severe asthma, which clinically results in increased lung function, improved symptoms, and decreased exacerbation rates. AREAS COVERED We examined the pharmacokinetic issues associated with triple therapy for uncontrolled asthma. We considered the pharmacokinetic characteristics of the three drug classes, the role of inhalers in influencing their pharmacokinetic behavior, and the impact of severe asthma on the pharmacokinetics of inhaled drugs. EXPERT OPINION The pharmacokinetics of ICSs and bronchodilators are not affected to a great extent by severe asthma, according to a detailed review of the currently accessible literature. Compared to healthy people, patients with severe asthma show only minor variations in a few pharmacokinetic characteristics, which are unlikely to have therapeutic significance and do not require particular attention. However, the difficulty of obtaining pharmacokinetic profiles of the three drugs included in a triple therapy suggests that the clinical response should be followed over time, which can be considered a good surrogate indicator of whether the drugs have reached sufficient concentrations in the lung to exert a valid pharmacological action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Gabriella Matera
- Unit of Pharmacology, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', Naples, Italy
| | - Barbara Rinaldi
- Unit of Pharmacology, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', Naples, Italy
| | - Carmela Belardo
- Unit of Pharmacology, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', Naples, Italy
| | - Luigino Calzetta
- Unit of Respiratory Disease and Lung Function, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Mario Cazzola
- Unit of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome 'Tor Vergata', Rome, Italy
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Ora J, Calzetta L, Ritondo BL, Matera MG, Rogliani P. Current long-acting muscarinic antagonists for the treatment of asthma. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2021; 22:2343-2357. [PMID: 34219573 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2021.1952182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The role of long-acting muscarinic antagonists (LAMAs) is well established in uncontrolled asthma, but not in milder stages. AREAS COVERED This review examines the main randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that have investigated LAMAs administered as monotherapy or in combination to asthmatic patients, according to the different phenotypes. It offers an overview of the role of LAMAs or their fixed dose combinations (FDCs) in the treatment across all the different stages of asthma. EXPERT OPINION Tiotropium is now widely recognized as treatment for moderate to severe uncontrolled asthma (step 4-5) in adults and children. The most recent new evidence is: a) in adults, three different LAMA/long-acting β2-agonist (LABA)/inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) FDCs have been recently approved, extending the treatment options for these patients; b) therapy with LAMAs does not depend on patient's Th2 status and justifies the indication regardless of patient's phenotyping; c) in the milder stages, the high variability of response to LAMAs and the lack of a good phenotyping of patients represents the main obstacle in prescribing LAMAs. A better characterization of parasympathetic tone activity could improve LAMAs prescription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josuel Ora
- Respiratory Medicine Unit, University Hospital "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Luigino Calzetta
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | | | - Maria Gabriella Matera
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Paola Rogliani
- Respiratory Medicine Unit, University Hospital "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy.,Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
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Kaplan A, Chang KL. Tiotropium in asthma - perspectives for the primary care physician. Postgrad Med 2020; 133:552-564. [PMID: 32896185 DOI: 10.1080/00325481.2020.1816329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Asthma is a heterogeneous disease characterized by airway inflammation resulting from complex interactions between multiple hosts as well as environmental factors. As a chronic respiratory condition, asthma exerts a significant impact on patients and the healthcare system. Per the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA), inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) with/without long-acting beta2-agonists (LABAs) should be used as the preferred controllers for the management of asthma. Despite a range of therapeutic options, many patients with asthma remain uncontrolled, resulting in an increased risk of hospitalization and emergency room visits and a worsened quality of life. Tiotropium (Spiriva®, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc; 1.25 µg, two puffs, once daily), delivered via the Respimat® inhaler (Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc.), was the first long-acting muscarinic antagonist to be approved as an add-on maintenance treatment option for patients with asthma aged ≥6 years at GINA steps 4 and 5. By binding to the muscarinic receptors M1 and M3 in the bronchial airways, tiotropium antagonizes the action of acetylcholine, leading to smooth muscle relaxation and reduced mucus secretion.The efficacy and safety of tiotropium add-on to ICS±LABA maintenance treatment have been evaluated in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving patients with a range of asthma severities (mild, moderate, and severe) and across age groups (children, adolescents, and adults). Add-on tiotropium was found to be well tolerated and efficacious in all RCTs. Moreover, the findings from real-world studies complement results from RCTs, showing beneficial effects of tiotropium in reducing exacerbations, hospitalization, emergency room visits, and asthma worsening.In this review article, we discuss the pathophysiology of asthma and the role of tiotropium in the management of asthma from the perspective of a primary care physician.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan Kaplan
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ku-Lang Chang
- Department of Community Health and Family Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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Matera MG, Page CP, Calzetta L, Rogliani P, Cazzola M. Pharmacology and Therapeutics of Bronchodilators Revisited. Pharmacol Rev 2020; 72:218-252. [PMID: 31848208 DOI: 10.1124/pr.119.018150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Bronchodilators remain the cornerstone of the treatment of airway disorders such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). There is therefore considerable interest in understanding how to optimize the use of our existing classes of bronchodilator and in identifying novel classes of bronchodilator drugs. However, new classes of bronchodilator have proved challenging to develop because many of these have no better efficacy than existing classes of bronchodilator and often have unacceptable safety profiles. Recent research has shown that optimization of bronchodilation occurs when both arms of the autonomic nervous system are affected through antagonism of muscarinic receptors to reduce the influence of parasympathetic innervation of the lung and through stimulation of β 2-adrenoceptors (β 2-ARs) on airway smooth muscle with β 2-AR-selective agonists to mimic the sympathetic influence on the lung. This is currently achieved by use of fixed-dose combinations of inhaled long-acting β 2-adrenoceptor agonists (LABAs) and long-acting muscarinic acetylcholine receptor antagonists (LAMAs). Due to the distinct mechanisms of action of LAMAs and LABAs, the additive/synergistic effects of using these drug classes together has been extensively investigated. More recently, so-called "triple inhalers" containing fixed-dose combinations of both classes of bronchodilator (dual bronchodilation) and an inhaled corticosteroid in the same inhaler have been developed. Furthermore, a number of so-called "bifunctional drugs" having two different primary pharmacological actions in the same molecule are under development. This review discusses recent advancements in knowledge on bronchodilators and bifunctional drugs for the treatment of asthma and COPD. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Since our last review in 2012, there has been considerable research to identify novel classes of bronchodilator drugs, to further understand how to optimize the use of the existing classes of bronchodilator, and to better understand the role of bifunctional drugs in the treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- M G Matera
- Unit of Pharmacology, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy (M.G.M.); Sackler Institute of Pulmonary Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, United Kingdom (C.P.P.); and Unit of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata," Rome, Italy (L.C., P.R., M.C.)
| | - C P Page
- Unit of Pharmacology, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy (M.G.M.); Sackler Institute of Pulmonary Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, United Kingdom (C.P.P.); and Unit of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata," Rome, Italy (L.C., P.R., M.C.)
| | - L Calzetta
- Unit of Pharmacology, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy (M.G.M.); Sackler Institute of Pulmonary Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, United Kingdom (C.P.P.); and Unit of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata," Rome, Italy (L.C., P.R., M.C.)
| | - P Rogliani
- Unit of Pharmacology, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy (M.G.M.); Sackler Institute of Pulmonary Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, United Kingdom (C.P.P.); and Unit of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata," Rome, Italy (L.C., P.R., M.C.)
| | - M Cazzola
- Unit of Pharmacology, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy (M.G.M.); Sackler Institute of Pulmonary Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, King's College London, London, United Kingdom (C.P.P.); and Unit of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata," Rome, Italy (L.C., P.R., M.C.)
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Matera MG, Rinaldi B, Berardo C, Rinaldi M, Cazzola M. A review of the pharmacokinetics of M 3 muscarinic receptor antagonists used for the treatment of asthma. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2020; 16:143-148. [PMID: 31958237 DOI: 10.1080/17425255.2020.1716730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: There is solid evidence that in patients with poorly controlled severe asthma despite the use of ICS and LABA, the addition of LAMAs, such as tiotropium, significantly increases the time to the first severe exacerbation and provides a modest but sustained bronchodilation. However, only a very limited number of pharmacokinetic studies with these agents have been performed in asthmatic patients.Areas covered: The pharmacokinetic profile of inhaled tiotropium, umeclidinium and glycopyrronium in healthy volunteers and that of inhaled tiotropium and umeclidinium in asthmatic patients have been reviewed.Expert opinion: In asthmatic patients, LAMAs are rapidly absorbed into the systemic compartment and demonstrate bi-exponential elimination (rapidly declining plasma concentrations followed by slow apparent terminal elimination). Apparently, the severity of asthma does not change the pharmacokinetics of LAMAs. The limited information available is focused on the plasma pharmacokinetic profile of these drugs and, consequently, although suitable for establishing a systemic safety profile, it does not tell us much about possible therapeutic efficacy of LAMAs in asthmatics because quantification of systemic plasma values is neither at the airways, which are their site of action nor representative of their transport to this site.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Gabriella Matera
- Unit of Pharmacology, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Barbara Rinaldi
- Unit of Pharmacology, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Carmela Berardo
- Unit of Pharmacology, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Michele Rinaldi
- Multidisciplnary Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialities, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Mario Cazzola
- Unit of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
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Buhl R, FitzGerald JM, Meltzer EO, de la Hoz A, Sigmund R, Kerstjens HAM, Bleecker ER. Efficacy of once-daily tiotropium Respimat in adults with asthma at GINA Steps 2-5. Pulm Pharmacol Ther 2019; 60:101881. [PMID: 31874283 DOI: 10.1016/j.pupt.2019.101881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Tiotropium Respimat is an efficacious add-on to maintenance treatment in patients with symptomatic asthma. Currently, the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) strategy recommends tiotropium for patients at Steps 4-5. To assess the clinical benefits of tiotropium Respimat across asthma severities, GINA Steps 2-5, a post hoc analysis of five double-blind trials (12-48-weeks; patients aged 18-75 years) investigated the effect of tiotropium Respimat, 5 μg or 2.5 μg, versus placebo, on peak forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) within 3 h post-dose (FEV1(0-3h)) response, and Asthma Control Questionnaire-7 (ACQ-7) responder rate. GINA step grouping was based on patients' background treatment regimen. Baseline characteristics of patients (N = 2926) were balanced between treatments. Tiotropium Respimat showed consistent improvements in lung function across GINA steps; placebo-corrected peak FEV1(0-3h) improvements after tiotropium Respimat 5 μg and 2.5 μg were: Step 2 (Week 8), 135 mL (95% confidence interval: 84, 187) and 155 mL (103, 206); Step 3 (Week 24), 187 mL (139, 235) and 235 mL (187, 283); Step 4 (Week 24), 111 mL (63, 159) and 181 mL (35, 326); Step 5 (Week 24; 5 μg only), 164 mL (5, 323). Asthma control improved with tiotropium Respimat versus placebo, showing statistical significance (nominal P value) with tiotropium Respimat 5 μg at Step 4 (odds ratio 1.36 [1.03, 1.78]). Safety profiles were similar between treatments. In conclusion, tiotropium Respimat add-on therapy improves lung function, and may improve asthma control, in adults across disease severities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roland Buhl
- Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany.
| | | | - Eli O Meltzer
- University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
| | - Alberto de la Hoz
- Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH, Ingelheim Am Rhein, Germany.
| | - Ralf Sigmund
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riss, Germany.
| | - Huib A M Kerstjens
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, And Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD GRAIC, Groningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Eugene R Bleecker
- Genomics and Precision Medicine, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, AZ, USA.
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Bouhajib M, Tayab Z. An evaluation of the pharmacokinetics of tiotropium following a single-dose inhalation in healthy subjects using an ultra-sensitive bioanalytical method. Drug Dev Ind Pharm 2019; 45:1915-1920. [PMID: 31613148 DOI: 10.1080/03639045.2019.1680993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Objective and significance: The systemic bioavailability of tiotropium following administration via inhalation is known to be very low. A validated ultra-sensitive bioanalytical method with the lowest lower limit of quantitation (LLOQ) was developed and used to evaluate the complete pharmacokinetic profile of tiotropium.Methods: This was a pharmacokinetic study performed in 18 healthy subjects. Each subject was administered a dose of 18 mcg of tiotropium from a dry powder inhaler (DPI). The subjects' plasma tiotropium concentrations were assayed with LLOQ of 0.1 pg/mL.Results: The results showed a mean Cmax of 4.98 ± 3.55 pg/mL, and a median (tmax) of 3.6 minutes (range: 1.8-12 minutes). The means for area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) from time zero hours to infinity (AUCinf) and AUC from time zero hours to the time of the last measurable tiotropium concentration (AUCt) were 51.11 ± 27.4 pg*h/mL and 37.37 ± 23.38 pg*h/mL, respectively. The mean apparent elimination half-life (t1/2) was 68.02 ± 24.55 hours. This calculated half-life is longer than what others have reported where a less sensitive LLOQ was used.Conclusion: The lower LLOQ enabled further insight into the pharmacokinetics of tiotropium that was not possible with other analytical methods. With this method, we were able to quantify tiotropium concentrations as early as one minute following drug administration and up to 144 hours after dosing. The application of this method will allow for studies to be designed properly and enable further investigations into the pharmacokinetics of tiotropium.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zia Tayab
- Pharma Medica Research Inc, Mississauga, Canada
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Buhl R, Hamelmann E. Future perspectives of anticholinergics for the treatment of asthma in adults and children. Ther Clin Risk Manag 2019; 15:473-485. [PMID: 30936709 PMCID: PMC6422409 DOI: 10.2147/tcrm.s180890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite major advances in therapeutic interventions and the availability of detailed treatment guidelines, a high proportion of patients with symptomatic asthma remain uncontrolled. Asthma management is largely guided by the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) strategy and is based on a backbone of inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) therapy with the use of additional therapies to achieve disease control. Inhaled long-acting bronchodilators alone and in combination are the preferred add-on treatment options. Although long-acting muscarinic antagonists (LAMAs) are a relatively recent addition to disease management recommendations for asthma, tiotropium has been extensively studied in a large clinical trial program. In Europe and the United States, tiotropium is approved for patients aged ≥6 years and uncontrolled on medium- to high-dose ICS/long-acting β2-agonists at GINA Steps 4 and 5 with a history of exacerbations. Evidence supports the efficacy of tiotropium Respimat® in adults in terms of lung function and asthma control, with a safety profile comparable with that of placebo across a range of asthma severities. Similarly, clinical trials in patients aged 1-17 years have shown improvements in lung function and trends toward improved asthma control. Furthermore, its efficacy makes tiotropium relatively easy to incorporate into routine clinical practice, irrespective of allergic status and without the need for patient phenotyping. Tiotropium is a cost-effective treatment that may offer an important alternative to other, more expensive add-on therapies. This review discusses the potential future position of LAMAs in clinical practice by considering the continuously evolving evidence. Prominence is given to tiotropium, the only LAMA supported by a structured clinical trial program in asthma to date, while also considering other recommended treatment options for patients with uncontrolled asthma. The importance of effective patient/caregiver-clinician communication and shared decision-making in enhancing treatment adherence is also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roland Buhl
- Pulmonary Department, Johannes Gutenberg University Hospital Mainz, Mainz, Germany,
| | - Eckard Hamelmann
- Children's Center Bethel, Evangelic Hospital Bethel, Department of Pediatrics, Bielefeld, Germany
- University Children's Hospital, Allergy Center Ruhr, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
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Goldstein S. Clinical efficacy and safety of anticholinergic therapies in pediatric patients. Ther Clin Risk Manag 2019; 15:437-449. [PMID: 30936706 PMCID: PMC6422407 DOI: 10.2147/tcrm.s161362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The burden of uncontrolled asthma in children and adolescents is high. Treatment options for pediatric patients (aged under 18 years) with asthma are largely influenced by the Global Initiative for Asthma recommendations. Algorithms for adolescents (12-18 years) and adults are identical, but recommendations for children aged under 6 years and 6-11 years differ. Although the goals of treatment for pediatric patients with asthma are similar to those for adults, relatively few new therapies have been approved for this patient population within the last decade. Designing clinical trials involving children presents several challenges, notably that children are often less able to perform lung function tests, and traditional endpoints used in clinical trials with adults, such as forced expiratory volume in 1 second, asthma exacerbations and questionnaires, have limitations associated with their use in children. There are also ethical considerations related to the performance of longer placebo-controlled exacerbation trials. This review considers additional clinical endpoints to those traditionally reported, including forced expiratory flow at 25%-75% of forced vital capacity, which may help shed light on which treatments are most effective for use in pediatric patients with asthma. The pros and cons of specific and potentially clinically relevant endpoints are considered, along with device considerations and patient preferences that may enhance adherence and quality of life. Recent advances in the management of children and adolescents, including the US Food and Drug Administration and European Medicines Agency approval of tiotropium in patients with asthma aged 6 years and over, are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stanley Goldstein
- Allergy and Asthma Care of Long Island, Rockville Centre, New York, NY, USA,
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Wachtel H, Nagel M, Engel M, El Azzi G, Sharma A, Suggett J. In vitro and clinical characterization of the valved holding chamber AeroChamber Plus ® Flow-Vu ® for administrating tiotropium Respimat ® in 1-5-year-old children with persistent asthmatic symptoms. Respir Med 2018; 137:181-190. [PMID: 29605203 DOI: 10.1016/j.rmed.2018.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2018] [Revised: 03/02/2018] [Accepted: 03/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND When characterizing inhalation products, a comprehensive assessment including in vitro, pharmacokinetic (PK), and clinical data is required. We conducted a characterization of tiotropium Respimat® when administered with AeroChamber Plus® Flow-Vu® anti-static valved holding chamber (test VHC) with face mask in 1-5-year-olds with persistent asthmatic symptoms. METHODS In vitro tiotropium dose and particle size distribution delivered into a cascade impactor were evaluated under fixed paediatric and adult flow rates between actuation and samplings. The tiotropium mass likely to reach children's lungs was assessed by tidal breathing simulations and an ADAM-III Child Model. PK exposure to tiotropium in preschool children with persistent asthmatic symptoms (using test VHC) was compared with pooled data from nine Phase 2/3 trials in older children, adolescents, and adults with symptomatic persistent asthma not using test VHC. RESULTS At fixed inspiratory flow rates, emitted mass and fine particle dose decreased under lower flow conditions; dose reduction was observed when Respimat® was administered by test VHC at paediatric flow rates. In <5-year-old children, such a dose reduction is appropriate. In terms of dose per kg/body weight, in vitro-delivered dosing in children was comparable with adults. Transmission and aerosol holding properties of Respimat® when administered with test VHC were fully sufficient for aerosol delivery to patients. At zero delay, particles <5 μm (most relevant fraction) exhibited a transfer efficacy of ≥60%. The half-time was>10 s, allowing multiple breaths. Standardized tidal inhalation resulted in an emitted mass from the test VHC of approximately one-third of labelled dose, independent of coordination and face mask use, indicating predictable tiotropium administration by test VHC with Respimat®. Tiotropium exposure in 1-5-year-old patients using the test VHC, when adjusted by height or body surface, was comparable with that in older age groups without VHCs; no overexposure was observed. Adverse events were less frequent with tiotropium (2.5 μg, n = 20 [55.6%]; 5 μg, n = 18 [58.1%]) than placebo (n = 25 [73.5%]). CONCLUSIONS Our findings provide good initial evidence to suggest that tiotropium Respimat® may be administered with AeroChamber Plus® Flow-Vu® VHC in 1-5-year-old patients with persistent asthmatic symptoms. To confirm the clinical efficacy and safety in these patients, additional trials are required. CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRY NUMBER The trial was registered under NCT01634113 at http://www.clinicaltrials.gov.
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Affiliation(s)
- Herbert Wachtel
- Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH, Ingelheim am Rhein, Germany.
| | - Mark Nagel
- Trudell Medical International, London, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Michael Engel
- Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH, Ingelheim am Rhein, Germany.
| | - Georges El Azzi
- Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH, Ingelheim am Rhein, Germany.
| | - Ashish Sharma
- Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG, Biberach an der Riss, Germany.
| | - Jason Suggett
- Trudell Medical International, London, Ontario, Canada.
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Bonini M, Scichilone N. Tiotropium in asthma: back to the future of anticholinergic treatment. Clin Mol Allergy 2017; 15:20. [PMID: 29213218 PMCID: PMC5713051 DOI: 10.1186/s12948-017-0076-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2017] [Accepted: 10/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Asthma is among the most common chronic diseases worldwide; however, despite progresses in the understanding of the patho-physiological mechanisms and advances in the development of new therapeutic options and strategies, the disease remains uncontrolled in a not trivial proportion of subjects. Thus, the need of new molecules to treat the underlying biological and functional abnormalities and to control symptoms is strongly advocated by clinicians. In this scenario, the most recent GINA guidelines have included the use of tiotropium bromide in the most severe and uncontrolled forms of the disease, in addition to treatment with inhaled corticosteroid plus long acting beta adrenergic agents. Indeed, a large body of evidence has accumulated to support the use of tiotropium bromide in asthma. The current review paper provides a state of the art systematic revision of findings on the efficacy and safety of tiotropium in the adult and paediatric asthma population. To this aim, electronic searches were undertaken in the most common scientific databases from the date of inception to March 2017. Robust and high quality evidence showed that tiotropium is effective and safe in both adults and children/adolescents. Predictive markers of response have been also suggested, as well as cost–benefit analyses reported. The tiotropium bronchodilator effect seems to be not solely related to the reduction of the smooth muscle tone. However, the observations on anti-inflammatory properties or reduction in mucus production, despite highly interesting, have been only demonstrated in in vitro studies and animal models, therefore advocating for further specifically designed investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Bonini
- Airways Division, Airways Disease Section, National Heart and Lung Institute (NHLI), Royal Brompton Hospital & Imperial College, Dovehouse Street, London, SW3 6LY UK
| | - Nicola Scichilone
- Department of Biomedicine and Internal and Specialistic Medicine (DIBIMIS), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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12
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Response to Sharma et al.: Long Pulmonary Residence Time and Plasma Half-Life of Tiotropium: Implications for Pharmacokinetic Bioequivalence Studies. Clin Drug Investig 2017; 37:709-710. [DOI: 10.1007/s40261-017-0535-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Radovanovic D, Santus P, Blasi F, Mantero M. The evidence on tiotropium bromide in asthma: from the rationale to the bedside. Multidiscip Respir Med 2017; 12:12. [PMID: 28484598 PMCID: PMC5420159 DOI: 10.1186/s40248-017-0094-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe and poorly controlled asthma still accounts for a great portion of the patients affected. Disease control and future risk management have been identified by international guidelines as the main goals in patients with asthma. The need for new treatment approaches has led to reconsider anticholinergic drugs as an option for asthma treatment. Tiotropium is the first anticholinergic drug that has been approved for children and adults with poorly controlled asthma and is currently considered as an option for steps 4 and 5 of the Global Initiative for Asthma. In large randomized clinical trials enrolling patients with moderate to severe asthma, add-on therapy with tiotropium has demonstrated to be efficacious in improving lung function, decreasing risk of exacerbation and slowing the worsening of disease; accordingly, tiotropium demonstrated to be non inferior compared to long acting beta-agonists in the maintenance treatment along with medium to high inhaled corticosteroids. In view of the numerous ancillary effects acting on inflammation, airway remodeling, mucus production and cough reflex, along with the good safety profile and the broad spectrum of efficacy demonstrated in different disease phenotypes, tiotropium can represent a beneficial alternative in the therapeutic management of poorly controlled asthma. The present extensive narrative review presents the pharmacological and pathophysiological basis that guided the rationale for the introduction of tiotropium in asthma treatment algorithm, with a particular focus on its conventional and unconventional effects; finally, data on tiotropium efficacy and safety. from recent randomized clinical trials performed in all age categories will be extensively discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dejan Radovanovic
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (DIBIC), University of Milan, Pulmonary Unit, Ospedale L. Sacco, ASST Fatebenfratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy
| | - Pierachille Santus
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (DIBIC), University of Milan, Pulmonary Unit, Ospedale L. Sacco, ASST Fatebenfratelli-Sacco, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Blasi
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, Cardio-thoracic unit and Adult Cystic Fibrosis Center, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Mantero
- Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, Cardio-thoracic unit and Adult Cystic Fibrosis Center, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
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14
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Halpin DM, Kaplan AG, Russell RK. Why choose tiotropium for my patient? A comprehensive review of actions and outcomes versus other bronchodilators. Respir Med 2017; 128:28-41. [PMID: 28610667 DOI: 10.1016/j.rmed.2017.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2017] [Revised: 04/12/2017] [Accepted: 04/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma are leading causes of morbidity and mortality. This narrative review provides an appraisal of the pharmacological and clinical characteristics of tiotropium in COPD and asthma, and examines how these compare with other long-acting bronchodilators. The evidence base is placed into context by relating it to factors affecting clinicians' choice of therapy. MAIN FINDINGS Desirable attributes of a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) maintenance therapy include effective pharmacological bronchodilation, improved lung function, exacerbation efficacy, and positive effects on symptom control, exercise capacity and quality of life across a broad patient population. Tolerability and convenience of use are also important for patient well-being and treatment adherence. Tiotropium shows higher affinity for muscarinic receptors than ipratropium, and prolonged binding to the M3 receptor compared with other LAMAs. In COPD, tiotropium has demonstrated improved lung function and exacerbation prevention compared with placebo or long-acting β2-agonists, similar exacerbation efficacy to other LAMAs, and enhanced symptom control and health status versus placebo. UniTinA-asthma® showed the benefits of add-on tiotropium in patients with uncontrolled mild to moderate and severe asthma. Tiotropium is well tolerated, with an incidence of adverse events similar to placebo, except for known infrequent side effects of anticholinergics. Tiotropium HandiHaler® and Respimat® augment inhaler choice in COPD. PRINCIPAL CONCLUSIONS With over 10 years' prescribing history and 50 million patient-years of use, tiotropium has the benefit of a more extensive clinical evidence base than other long-acting bronchodilators, with demonstrated efficacy and safety in COPD and symptomatic asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Halpin
- Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital, Barrack Road, Exeter, EX2 5DW, United Kingdom.
| | - Alan G Kaplan
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, 500 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, ON M5G 1V7, Canada.
| | - Richard K Russell
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headley Way, Headington, Oxford, OX3 9DS, United Kingdom.
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15
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Cazzola M, Ora J, Rogliani P, Matera MG. Role of muscarinic antagonists in asthma therapy. Expert Rev Respir Med 2017; 11:239-253. [PMID: 28140686 DOI: 10.1080/17476348.2017.1289844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Higher parasympathetic tone has been reported in asthmatics. In general, cholinergic contractile tone is increased by airway inflammation associated with asthma. Nevertheless, the role of muscarinic antagonists for the treatment of asthma has not yet been clearly defined. Areas covered: The use of SAMAs and LAMAs in asthma has been examined and discussed according with the published evidence. Particular attention has been given to the large Phase III clinical trial program designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of tiotropium respimat added to standard treatment in adults, adolescents and children with persistent asthma across the spectrum of asthma severity. Expert commentary: The current evidence is that in patients with poorly controlled severe asthma despite the use of ICS and LABA, the addition of tiotropium significantly increases the time to the first severe exacerbation and provides a modest but sustained bronchodilation. Identical results should be produced using other LAMAs. In any case, the documentation that, at least in animal or in vitro models, LAMAs show significant anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative capacities and are able to inhibit airway remodeling induced by allergens makes a strong presumption that the use of LAMAs in asthma may go beyond the simple bronchodilator effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Cazzola
- a Chair of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Systems Medicine , University of Rome Tor Vergata , Rome , Italy
| | - Josuel Ora
- b Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine , University Hospital Tor Vergata , Rome , Italy
| | - Paola Rogliani
- a Chair of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Systems Medicine , University of Rome Tor Vergata , Rome , Italy.,b Division of Respiratory Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine , University Hospital Tor Vergata , Rome , Italy
| | - Maria Gabriella Matera
- c Chair of Pharmacology, Department of Experimental Medicine , Second University of Naples , Naples , Italy
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16
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Hamelmann E, Vogelberg C, Szefler SJ. Tiotropium for the treatment of asthma in adolescents. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2017; 18:305-312. [PMID: 28110558 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2017.1285906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Asthma is a prevalent disease affecting millions of individuals. Despite receiving guideline therapy with inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) with or without a long-acting β2-agonist (LABA), a proportion of patients remain symptomatic or have suboptimal lung function. There is therefore an unmet need for additional therapies to improve asthma control. The long-acting anticholinergic tiotropium, delivered via the Respimat inhaler, is approved for the treatment of asthma in the EU, the USA, and other countries. Phase III investigation in adults has demonstrated that tiotropium improves lung function and asthma control, with a safety profile comparable with that of placebo. Areas covered: Clinical trials in adolescent patients (aged 12-17 years) with moderate or severe symptomatic asthma have shown that tiotropium Respimat as add-on to ICS, with or without other maintenance therapies, is a well-tolerated and efficacious bronchodilator showing trends toward improved asthma control, similar to data in adult patients. Expert opinion: Tiotropium Respimat may be of benefit as add-on maintenance therapy to medium- or high-dose ICS with or without LABA; however, further data are needed to directly compare the efficacy of ICS plus tiotropium versus ICS plus LABA in adolescents with symptomatic asthma, and to establish the long-term effects on airway modeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eckard Hamelmann
- a Klinik für Kinder- und Jugendmedizin, Kinderzentrum Bethel, Evangelisches Krankenhaus Bielefeld GmbH , Akademisches Lehrkrankenhaus der Universität Münster , Bielefeld , Germany
| | - Christian Vogelberg
- b Department of Pulmonology and Allergy , University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technical University of Dresden , Dresden , Germany
| | - Stanley J Szefler
- c Pediatric Asthma Research Program, Children's Hospital Colorado, Breathing Institute , Department of Pediatrics, Section of Pulmonary Medicine , Aurora , CO , USA.,d University of Colorado School of Medicine , Aurora , CO , USA
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17
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Aalbers R, Park HS. Positioning of Long-Acting Muscarinic Antagonists in the Management of Asthma. ALLERGY, ASTHMA & IMMUNOLOGY RESEARCH 2017; 9:386-393. [PMID: 28677351 PMCID: PMC5500692 DOI: 10.4168/aair.2017.9.5.386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2017] [Accepted: 03/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Despite a range of efficacious therapies for asthma, including inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) and long-acting β2-agonists (LABA), a significant proportion of patients have poor asthma control and retain a risk of future worsening of their symptoms. Long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) bronchodilators offer a well-tolerated, efficacious, and cost-effective add-on to a patient's treatment. Of the LAMAs currently under investigation or available for the treatment of asthma, evidence from a comprehensive clinical trial program in adults and children shows that once-daily treatment with tiotropium provides benefits for patients with uncontrolled asthma despite the use of ICS and LABAs. Tiotropium is included in the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) strategy document as an add-on therapy option for patients at Step 4 or 5 with a history of asthma exacerbations. Tiotropium Respimat® has demonstrated safety and efficacy in patients with a range of disease severities, ages, and phenotypes. This review describes the evidence for the use of LAMA as add-on therapy for patients with asthma who remain uncontrolled despite the use of ICS and LABA treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- René Aalbers
- Department of Pulmonology, Martini Hospital, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Hae Sim Park
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea.
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18
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Vogelberg C. Tiotropium in the add-on treatment of asthma in adults: clinical trial evidence and experience. Ther Adv Respir Dis 2016; 10:525-533. [PMID: 27612491 PMCID: PMC5933593 DOI: 10.1177/1753465816662571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory airway disease, and its treatment is frequently
challenging despite detailed national and international guidelines. While basic
anti-inflammatory therapy usually consists of inhaled corticosteroids in doses
adapted to the asthma severity, add-on treatment with bronchodilators is
essential in more severe asthma. Only recently, the long-acting anticholinergic
tiotropium was introduced into the GINA guidelines. This review reports on the
studies that have been performed with tiotropium in adult asthmatic patients.
Following early proof-of-concept studies, several studies with tiotropium as an
add-on therapy to inhaled corticosteroids (ICS), with or without a long-acting
beta agonist (LABA), demonstrated convincing clinical benefit for patients.
Important lung function parameters and quality of life scores significantly
improved shortly after onset of the add-on therapy with tiotropium, and some
studies even demonstrated non-inferiority against salmeterol. All studies
reported an excellent safety profile of tiotropium. The still growing body of
tiotropium studies, both in adults and children, will help to identify the
position of tiotropium in future asthma guidelines and might also indicate which
patients benefit most from an add-on therapy with tiotropium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Vogelberg
- University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Department of Pediatric Pulmonology and Allergology, Fetscherstr. 74, 01307 Dresden, Germany
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Safety and tolerability of once-daily tiotropium Respimat(®) as add-on to at least inhaled corticosteroids in adult patients with symptomatic asthma: A pooled safety analysis. Respir Med 2016; 118:102-111. [PMID: 27578478 DOI: 10.1016/j.rmed.2016.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2016] [Revised: 06/10/2016] [Accepted: 07/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tiotropium, a long-acting anticholinergic bronchodilator, has demonstrated efficacy and safety as add-on therapy to inhaled corticosteroids (ICS), with or without other maintenance therapies, in patients with symptomatic asthma. OBJECTIVE To evaluate safety and tolerability of tiotropium delivered via the Respimat(®) device, compared with placebo, each as add-on to at least ICS therapy, in a pooled sample of adults with symptomatic asthma at different treatment steps. METHODS Data were pooled from seven Phase II and III, randomised, double-blind, parallel-group trials of 12-52 weeks' treatment duration, which investigated once-daily tiotropium Respimat(®) (5 μg, 2.5 μg) versus placebo as add-on to different background maintenance therapy including at least ICS. Adverse events (AEs) including serious AEs were assessed throughout treatment + 30 days after the last dose of trial medication. RESULTS Of 3474 patients analysed, 2157 received tiotropium. The percentage of patients with AEs was comparable between treatment groups: tiotropium 5 μg, 60.8%; placebo 5 μg pool, 62.5%; tiotropium 2.5 μg, 57.1%; placebo 2.5 μg pool, 55.1%. Consistent with the disease profile, the most frequent AEs overall were asthma, decreased peak expiratory flow rate (both less frequent with tiotropium) and nasopharyngitis. Overall incidence of dry mouth, commonly associated with use of anticholinergics, was low: tiotropium 5 μg, 1.0%; placebo 5 μg pool, 0.5%; tiotropium 2.5 μg, 0.4%; placebo 2.5 μg pool, 0.5%. The percentage of cardiac disorder AEs was comparable between tiotropium and placebo: tiotropium 5 μg, 1.4%; placebo 5 μg pool, 1.4%; tiotropium 2.5 μg, 1.4%; placebo 2.5 μg pool, 1.1%. The proportions of patients with serious AEs were balanced across groups: tiotropium 5 μg, 4.0%; placebo 5 μg pool, 4.9%; tiotropium 2.5 μg, 2.0%; placebo 2.5 μg pool, 3.3%. CONCLUSION Tiotropium Respimat(®) demonstrated safety and tolerability comparable with those of placebo, as add-on to at least ICS therapy, at different treatment steps in adults with symptomatic asthma.
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