Budesonide/formoterol: a review of its use in asthma

Impact of a Polymer-Based Nanoparticle with Formoterol Drug as Nanocarrier System In Vitro and in an Experimental Asthmatic Model

The implementation of nanotechnology in pulmonary delivery systems might result in better and more specific therapy. Therefore, a nano-sized drug carrier should be toxicologically inert and not induce adverse effects. We aimed to investigate the responses of a polymer nano drug carrier, a lysine poly-hydroxyethyl methacrylate nanoparticle (NP) [Lys-p(HEMA)], loaded with formoterol, both in vitro and in vivo in an ovalbumin (OVA) asthma model. The successfully synthesized nanodrug formulation showed an expectedly steady in vitro release profile. There was no sign of in vitro toxicity, and the 16HBE and THP-1 cell lines remained vital after exposure to the nanocarrier, both loaded and unloaded. In an experimental asthma model (Balb/c mice) of ovalbumin sensitization and challenge, the nanocarrier loaded and unloaded with formoterol was tested in a preventive strategy and compared to treatment with the drug in a normal formulation. The airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) and pulmonary inflammation in the bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), both cellular and biochemical, were assessed. The application of formoterol as a regular drug and the unloaded and formoterol-loaded NP in OVA-sensitized mice followed by a saline challenge was not different from the control group. Yet, both the NP formulation and the normal drug application led to a more deteriorated lung function and increased lung inflammation in the OVA-sensitized and -challenged mice, showing that the use of the p(HEMA) nanocarrier loaded with formoterol needs more extensive testing before it can be applied in clinical settings.

In Vivo Efficacy and Toxicity of an Antimicrobial Peptide in a Model of Endotoxin-Induced Pulmonary Inflammation

SET-M33 is a synthetic peptide that is being developed as a new antibiotic against major Gram-negative bacteria. Here we report two in vivo studies to assess the toxicity and efficacy of the peptide in a murine model of pulmonary inflammation. First, we present the toxicity study in which SET-M33 was administered to CD-1 mice by snout inhalation exposure for 1 h/day for 7 days at doses of 5 and 20 mg/kg/day. The results showed adverse clinical signs and effects on body weight at the higher dose, as well as some treatment-related histopathology findings (lungs and bronchi, nose/turbinates, larynx and tracheal bifurcation). On this basis, the no observable adverse effect level (NOAEL) was considered to be 5 mg/kg/day. We then report an efficacy study of the peptide in an endotoxin (LPS)-induced pulmonary inflammation model. Intratracheal administration of SET-M33 at 0.5, 2 and 5 mg/kg significantly inhibited BAL neutrophil cell counts after an LPS challenge. A significant reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines, KC, MIP-1α, IP-10, MCP-1 and TNF-α was also recorded after SET-M33 administration.

Recent advances in the development of microparticles for pulmonary administration

Pulmonary drug delivery offers several benefits for the management of various conditions over other conventional routes. Inhalation of drugs can also be useful for targeting alveolar macrophages and for maintaining a higher drug concentration in the lung tissues to improve the efficacy of drugs and shorten the duration of treatment, thereby reducing drug toxicities. Thus, such an approach is useful in the treatment of various pulmonary and nonpulmonary diseases. Newer techniques and delivery devices have been used for the formulation of inhalable microparticles. Here. we not only focus on advances in inhalation therapy and in the preparation of microparticles, but also address the clinical development and regulatory aspects of such therapies.

A randomized, double-blinded, double-dummy efficacy and safety study of budesonide-formoterol Spiromax® compared to budesonide-formoterol Turbuhaler® in adults and adolescents with persistent asthma

Background

Budesonide and formoterol (BF) Spiromax® is a dry powder inhaler designed to deliver BF with maximum ease of use for patients with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Methods

A phase 3b, 12-week, multicenter, double-blind, double-dummy, randomized, controlled trial in patients (≥12 years) with persistent asthma. Primary objective: to demonstrate non-inferiority of twice-daily BF Spiromax 160/4.5 mcg to BF Turbuhaler® 200/6 mcg in change from baseline in weekly average of daily trough morning peak expiratory flow (PEF). Secondary endpoints included: Patient Satisfaction and Preference Questionnaire scores, change from baseline in evening PEF, trough forced expiratory volume in one second, percentage of symptom-free and rescue-free 24-hour periods, and safety.

Results

The analysis was based on the per-protocol population (BF Spiromax, n = 290; BF Turbuhaler, n = 284). The least squares mean change from baseline to week 12 in morning PEF was: BF Spiromax, 18.8 L/min and BF Turbuhaler, 21.8 L/min. Non-inferiority of BF Spiromax vs BF Turbuhaler was demonstrated (the lower limit of the 95 % two-sided confidence interval was −9.02 L/min, which is greater than −15 L/min [the criteria specified for non-inferiority]). The mean difference in the total performance domains scores for BF Spiromax vs BF Turbuhaler were 0.248 at baseline and 0.353 at week 12 (both, p <0.001), indicating statistical superiority for BF Spiromax. No statistical or numerical differences were recorded in the total convenience domain score between the two devices. Scores for ‘device preference’ and ‘willingness to continue’ supported BF Spiromax at baseline and at week 12 (p = 0.0005 vs BF Turbuhaler). No significant between-group differences were observed in the other secondary efficacy endpoints. Both treatments were well tolerated, with no significant differences in adverse events or asthma exacerbations.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the non-inferiority of BF Spiromax vs BF Turbuhaler in patients (≥12 years) with asthma. More patients preferred the Spiromax device over Turbuhaler for its performance, and were willing to continue therapy with BF Spiromax beyond the 12-week study period.

Trial registration

NCT01803555; February 28, 2013.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12890-016-0200-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Fixed-Dose combination of the inhaled corticosteroid and long-acting beta2-agonist therapy in adults with persistent asthma

INTRODUCTION

Asthma is a respiratory condition characterized by airway inflammation, airflow obstruction, and bronchial hyperresponsiveness. The standard treatment of asthma comprises inhaled corticosteroid and beta2-agonist. Inhaled short-acting-beta2-agonists have been used as rescue medication for exacerbation. However, long-acting-beta2-agonists (LABA) used as monotherapy for asthma had been reported for having a safety concern. Consequently, it had been recommended as an add-on treatment to inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) in moderate to severe persistent asthma. The fixed-dose combination (FDC) of ICS and LABA has been approved since the year 2000. Evidences revealed using the combination of these medications is more effective in asthma control.

AREAS COVERED

The rational and phase III onward randomized-controlled studies were reviewed. Sources of evidences were from studies published in Medline until November 2015.

EXPERT OPINION

There are six FDC inhaler regimens approved worldwide. The significant synergistic effects of ICS and LABA in one device are well evidenced. A FDC reduces the daily dosage of ICS and asthma exacerbation. It is safe to use regularly as controller. The efficacy of each individual combination on asthma treatment is generally similar. Clinical experience, ease of use, cost and side effects of medication would guide the clinician's preferences.

Budesonide/salmeterol in fixed-dose combination for the treatment of asthma

Fixed dose combinations (FDC) of inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) and long-acting beta agonist (LABA) are well established in asthma treatment. The budesonide/salmeterol (B/S) FDC is now about to reach the market. It is provided as powder in hard capsules of two strengths: 120/20μg and 240/20μg when expressed as delivered doses, equivalent to 150/25μg and 300/25μg when expressed as nominal doses. Its development involved 9 pharmacokinetic (320 subjects), 3 phase II (123 subjects) and 4 phase III (1206 patients with different asthma severity) studies. Delivery is effectuated via low resistance inhaler device, Axahaler®, generating also fine particles targeting the small airways. B/S safety, assessed in 1401 subjects, did not outline novel concerns specific for this FDC. In conclusion, the B/S dry powder FDC can be used for asthma treatment in adults not adequately controlled on ICS alone, or to maintain control of ICS/LABA treated patients, in whom switching to alternative FDC is indicated.

Equivalent Lung Dose and Systemic Exposure of Budesonide/Formoterol Combination via Easyhaler and Turbuhaler

BACKGROUND

Easyhaler(®) device-metered dry powder inhaler containing budesonide and formoterol fumarate dihydrate (hereafter formoterol) for the treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease has been developed. The current approvals of the product in Europe were based on several pharmacokinetic (PK) bioequivalence (BE) studies, and in vitro-in vivo correlation (IVIVC) modeling.

METHODS

Four PK studies were performed to compare the lung deposition and total systemic exposure of budesonide and formoterol after administration of budesonide/formoterol Easyhaler and the reference product, Symbicort Turbuhaler. The products were administered concomitantly with oral charcoal (lung deposition) and in two of the studies also without charcoal (total systemic exposure). Demonstration of BE for lung deposition (surrogate marker for efficacy) and non-inferiority for systemic exposure (surrogate marker for safety) were considered a proof of therapeutic equivalence. In addition, IVIVC models were constructed to predict study outcomes with different reference product fine particle doses (FPDs).

RESULTS

In the first pivotal study, the exposure and lung dose via Easyhaler were higher compared to the reference product (mean comparison estimates between 1.07 and 1.28) as the FPDs of the reference product batch were low. In the following studies, reference product batches with higher FPDs were utilized. In the second pivotal study, non-inferiority of Easyhaler compared to Turbuhaler was shown in safety and BE in efficacy for all other parameters except the formoterol AUCt. In the fourth study where two reference batches were compared to each other and Easyhaler, budesonide/formoterol Easyhaler was bioequivalent with one reference batch but not with the other having the highest FPDs amongst the 28 reference batches studied. In the IVIVC based study outcome predictions, the test product was bioequivalent with great proportion of the reference batches. For the test product and the median FPD reference product BE was predicted.

CONCLUSIONS

Equivalence regarding both safety and efficacy between budesonide/formoterol Easyhaler and Symbicort Turbuhaler was shown based on totality of evidence from the PK studies and IVIVC analyses, and therefore, therapeutic equivalence between the products can be concluded. The results of the PK studies are likely dependent on the variability of FPDs of the reference product batches.

Stimulus-selective regulation of human mast cell gene expression, degranulation and leukotriene production by fluticasone and salmeterol

Despite the fact that glucocorticoids and long acting beta agonists are effective treatments for asthma, their effects on human mast cells (MC) appear to be modest. Although MC are one of the major effector cells in the underlying inflammatory reactions associated with asthma, their regulation by these drugs is not yet fully understood and, in some cases, controversial. Using a human immortalized MC line (LAD2), we studied the effects of fluticasone propionate (FP) and salmeterol (SM), on the release of early and late phase mediators. LAD2 cells were pretreated with FP (100 nM), SM (1 µM), alone and in combination, at various incubation times and subsequently stimulated with agonists substance P, C3a and IgE/anti-IgE. Degranulation was measured by the release of β-hexosaminidase. Cytokine and chemokine expression were measured using quantitative PCR, ELISA and cytometric bead array (CBA) assays. The combination of FP and SM synergistically inhibited degranulation of MC stimulated with substance P (33% inhibition compared to control, n = 3, P<.05). Degranulation was inhibited by FP alone, but not SM, when MC were stimulated with C3a (48% inhibition, n = 3, P<.05). As previously reported, FP and SM did not inhibit degranulation when MC were stimulated with IgE/anti-IgE. FP and SM in combination inhibited substance P-induced release of tumor necrosis factor (TNF), CCL2, and CXCL8 (98%, 99% and 92% inhibition, respectively, n = 4, P<.05). Fluticasone and salmeterol synergistically inhibited mediator production by human MC stimulated with the neuropeptide substance P. This synergistic effect on mast cell signaling may be relevant to the therapeutic benefit of combination therapy in asthma.

Step-down of budesonide/formoterol in early stages of asthma treatment leads to insufficient anti-inflammatory effect

OBJECTIVE

Administration of the combination of an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) and a long-acting beta agonist (LABA) is the main treatment strategy for bronchial asthma. The ICS/LABA dosage can be reduced (stepped down) when the patient's symptoms and lung functions are well-controlled. In this study, we obtained fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) measurements to clarify whether the anti-inflammatory effect of budesonide/formoterol is shortened by step-down.

METHODS

Fifty-four patients who visited the Kawasaki Medical School Hospital with newly diagnosed asthma from November 2008 to July 2010 received budesonide/formoterol for 8 weeks or more. In 29 patients, the forced expiratory volume in 1 s% predicted increased to 80% or more, and the Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) score decreased to 0.5 or less within 12 weeks. These 29 patients were randomly divided into two groups: the dosage-continued group (n = 14) and the step-down group (n = 15). Then, the impact of budesonide/formoterol step-down on ACQ score, pulmonary function and FeNO level was compared between the groups.

RESULTS

In the step-down group, the dosage was stepped down from 538 mcg/day to 331 mcg/day. In both groups, pulmonary function indicators and symptoms did not change. However, the mean FeNO level decreased significantly in the dosage-continued group (from 50.9 ppb to 45.0 ppb), and increased significantly in the step-down group (from 51.0 ppb to 65.7 ppb).

CONCLUSIONS

Clinicians should be more careful when stepping down budesonide/formoterol based solely on patients' symptoms and/or pulmonary function.

Mometasone/formoterol inhalation aerosol: in asthma uncontrolled on medium- or high-dose inhaled corticosteroids

The corticosteroid mometasone and the long-acting β(2)-selective adrenoreceptor agonist formoterol have been combined in a single pressurized metered-dose inhaler for use in patients aged ≥12 years with asthma. In a 26-week well designed trial in patients with persistent asthma uncontrolled on medium-dose inhaled corticosteroids (ICS), mometasone/formoterol 200 μg/10 μg twice daily (bid) was more effective than placebo or the same nominal dosage of formoterol alone in reducing the incidence of asthma deteriorations, as well as in improving lung function, asthma control, asthma symptoms and asthma-related quality-of-life outcomes. The combination was also more effective than the same nominal dosage of mometasone alone in improving lung function and asthma control. Similarly, in a 12-week well designed trial in patients with persistent asthma uncontrolled on high-dose ICS, mometasone/formoterol 400 μg/10 μg bid was more effective than the same nominal dosage of mometasone alone in improving lung function, asthma control and asthma symptoms. Treatment with a lower dosage of the combination (200 μg/10 μg bid) yielded similar results and, moreover, significantly reduced the incidence of asthma deteriorations compared with mometasone alone. Mometasone/formoterol was generally well tolerated in clinical trials of 12-52 weeks' duration. The adverse event profile of the combination was consistent with that of its individual components; no new or unexpected safety signals were detected.

Co-deposition of a triple therapy drug formulation for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease using solution-based pressurised metered dose inhalers

OBJECTIVES

The formulation of multi-drug pressurised metered dose inhalers (pMDIs) opens up exciting therapeutic opportunities for the treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We have investigated the formulation of a solution-based triple therapy pMDI containing ipratropium, formoterol, budesonide and ethanol as co-solvent.

METHODS

This system was characterised for in-vitro performance and compared with marketed pMDIs (Atrovent and Symbicort).

KEY FINDINGS

No significant difference was found in the stage deposition of each drug from the triple therapy formulation, suggesting that the droplets contained a fixed ratio of the three components used. Stage deposition of formoterol and budesonide from the suspension-based marketed Symbicort were significantly different, suggesting that the two drugs were deposited as separate entities. Calculation of the mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) of each formulation suggested Atrovent (ipratropium, MMAD = 0.9 ± 0.0 µm) to have a small particle size, similar to the triple therapy formulation. Atrovent, like the triple therapy formulation was solution based and it contained ethanol as a co-solvent (triple therapy formulation, MMAD = 1.3 ± 0.0 µm).

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated the feasibility of formulating a solution-based pMDI containing a triple therapy with identical deposition pattern for the treatment of several respiratory diseases where multi-drug cell targeting is required.

Treatment with budesonide/formoterol pressurized metered-dose inhaler in patients with asthma: a focus on patient-reported outcomes

In the United States, budesonide/formoterol pressurized metered-dose inhaler (pMDI) is approved for treatment of asthma in patients aged ≥12 years whose asthma is not adequately controlled with an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) or whose disease severity clearly warrants treatment with an ICS and a long-acting β₂-adrenergic agonist. This article reviews studies of budesonide/formoterol pMDI in patients with persistent asthma, with a particular focus on patient-reported outcomes (eg, perceived onset of effect, patient satisfaction with treatment, health-related quality of life [HRQL], global assessments, sleep quality and quantity), as these measures reflect patient perceptions of asthma control and disease burden. A search of PubMed and respiratory meetings was performed to identify relevant studies. In two pivotal budesonide/formoterol pMDI studies in adolescents and adults, greater efficacy and similar tolerability were shown with budesonide/formoterol pMDI 160/9 μg and 320/9 μg twice daily versus its monocomponents or placebo. In those studies, improvements in HRQL, patient satisfaction, global assessments of asthma control, and quality of sleep also favored budesonide/formoterol pMDI compared with one or both of its monocomponents or placebo. Budesonide/formoterol pMDI has a rapid onset of effect (within 15 minutes) that patients can feel, an attribute that may have benefits for treatment adherence. In summary, budesonide/formoterol pMDI is effective and well tolerated and has additional therapeutic benefits that may be important from the patient’s perspective.

Budesonide/formoterol in the treatment of asthma

Budesonide and formoterol are available in a combined inhaler that offers therapeutic advantages in the treatment of asthma. The rapid onset of bronchodilation seen with formoterol means that budesonide/formoterol can be used as both maintenance and relief therapy. This approach has been shown to reduce exacerbations and overcome the problem of patients who overuse short-acting &#x03B2;-agonists at the expense of inhaled corticosteroids. Concerns regarding safety of long-acting &#x03B2;-agonists have not been confirmed in studies of the budesonide/formoterol combination inhaler, and we believe the benefits of this medication clearly outweigh any possible small increased risk.

Extrafine beclomethasone dipropionate/formoterol hydrofluoroalkane-propelled inhaler in asthma

The fixed combination of beclomethasone and formoterol (BDP/F) is an extrafine hydrofluoroalkane-propelled formulation characterized by a small particle size and high particle deposition in the lower airways. The product is manufactured using a specific technology known as Modulite((R)), the advantages of which include a stable and uniform dose delivery and flexibility to tailor particle size. The high fraction of drug available for lung deposition and the resulting low fraction remaining in the upper airways account for a high efficacy coupled with a low systemic bioavailability, therefore making this combination competitive compared with other inhaled corticosteroid/long-acting beta(2)-agonist (ICS/LABA) fixed combinations currently available. A 6-month study comparing BDP/F fixed combination with BDP and formoterol administered via separate inhalers showed a comparable efficacy on lung function and a greater efficacy in favor of the BDP/F fixed combination in terms of improvements in symptom scores and asthma control. Comparative studies in moderate-to-severe asthmatics have shown that the BDP/F combination displays a comparable efficacy to that of ICS/LABA combinations across the different asthma outcomes measured. The smaller particle size of this BDP/F combination in comparison with other ICS/LABA combinations makes it potentially more effective on small airways, a specific target for asthma treatment. This should be confirmed by specifically designed studies. Future development of this combination will include the evaluation of efficacy in maintaining asthma control using a step-down approach and the assessment of its use as maintenance and reliever therapy, since formoterol has already been shown to be an effective reliever medication in asthma in another inhaler containing budesonide/formoterol.

Treatment of persistent asthma with Symbicort (budesonide/formoterol inhalation aerosol): an inhaled corticosteroid and long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonist in one pressurized metered-dose inhaler

OBJECTIVE

Budesonide/formoterol inhalation aerosol (Symbicort AstraZeneca, Wilmington, Delaware) is an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) and long-acting beta(2)-adrenergic agonist (LABA) combination administered twice daily via one hydrofluoroalkane pressurized metered-dose inhaler (pMDI) approved in the United States for the long-term maintenance treatment of persistent asthma in patients >or=12 years of age whose asthma cannot be controlled by an ICS alone. The objective was to review efficacy, safety, and pharmacogenetic data on budesonide/formoterol pMDI in the treatment of persistent asthma.

METHODS

The authors searched PubMed and respiratory meeting databases to identify asthma studies of budesonide/formoterol pMDI. Studies involving traditional and patient-reported outcomes, safety, tolerability, or pharmacogenetics were included.

RESULTS

In two 12-week pivotal trials in adolescents and adults, treatment with budesonide/formoterol pMDI 160/4.5 microg x 2 inhalations (320/9 microg) twice daily for moderate to severe persistent asthma or 80/4.5 microg x 2 inhalations (160/9 microg) twice daily for mild to moderate persistent asthma, demonstrated greater efficacy and similar tolerability compared with placebo and the same nominal dose of its monocomponents. Comparisons with formoterol dry powder inhaler (DPI) for predose forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV(1)) and with budesonide pMDI for 12-hour mean postdose FEV(1) demonstrated the anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory contributions of budesonide and formoterol, respectively. Evaluations of patient-reported outcomes, including asthma-specific quality of life and treatment satisfaction, further supported the clinical benefits of budesonide/formoterol pMDI. In a 52-week tolerability study of patients aged >or=12 years, budesonide/formoterol pMDI was delivered at up to double the maximum dose (640/18 microg twice daily) and demonstrated a safety profile similar to that of budesonide (640 microg twice daily), with no unexpected pattern of abnormalities. Additional studies reported that budesonide/formoterol pMDI 320/9 microg twice daily and fluticasone propionate/salmeterol DPI 250/50 microg twice daily have similar efficacy and tolerability, with significantly more patients achieving >or=15% improvement in FEV(1) within 15 minutes with budesonide/formoterol pMDI compared with fluticasone/salmeterol DPI. Moreover, inheritance of the Gly16Arg polymorphism of the beta(2)-adrenergic receptor does not appear to affect clinical outcomes with budesonide/formoterol pMDI.

CONCLUSION

Budesonide/formoterol pMDI administered twice daily is effective and generally well tolerated in patients whose asthma is not well controlled on ICS alone.

Budesonide/formoterol dry powder in asthma: an option for control as maintenance and reliever therapy

IMPORTANCE OF THE FIELD

Asthma is a heterogeneous disease with various components that may contribute to symptoms. Obtaining global control of is one of the fundamental parts of the management of this disease.

AREAS COVERED IN THIS REVIEW

The Cochrane trial database, Medline and Embase, were searched systematically, and approximately 20 respiratory journals and conference abstracts were searched manually. The search was limited to publications in English language of last 20 years and which included the keywords 'budesonide', 'formoterol', 'asthma' and 'control'.

WHAT THE READER WILL GAIN

The purposes of this review are: i) to discuss the rationale about possibility of using combination therapy administered with a single inhaler for both daily maintenance and relief as needed of breakthrough symptoms in asthma management; ii) to give readers the current status of clinical pharmacological treatment of asthma; iii) to discuss the evidence on the use of budesonide/formoterol dry powder in one inhaler.

TAKE HOME MESSAGE

Among the various inhalatory drugs, budesonide and formoterol can be conveniently delivered in one dry powder inhaler and simplify treatment by providing immediate step-up when symptoms increase. Alongside the anti-inflammatory component, formoterol provides both short- and long-acting bronchodilator effects with maintenance and reliever properties. The option of using one inhaler simplifies treatment by simultaneously providing bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory activity, thus enhancing compliance. As indicated in guidelines, all these characteristics are essential for optimizing asthma treatment and control.

Pharmacological strategies for improving the efficacy and therapeutic ratio of glucocorticoids in inflammatory lung diseases

Glucocorticoids are widely used to treat various inflammatory lung diseases. Acting via the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), they exert clinical effects predominantly by modulating gene transcription. This may be to either induce (transactivate) or repress (transrepress) gene transcription. However, certain individuals, including those who smoke, have certain asthma phenotypes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or some interstitial diseases may respond poorly to the beneficial effects of glucocorticoids. In these cases, high dose, often oral or parental, glucocorticoids are typically prescribed. This generally leads to adverse effects that compromise clinical utility. There is, therefore, a need to enhance the clinical efficacy of glucocorticoids while minimizing adverse effects. In this context, a long-acting beta(2)-adrenoceptor agonist (LABA) can enhance the clinical efficacy of an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) in asthma and COPD. Furthermore, LABAs can augment glucocorticoid-dependent gene expression and this action may account for some of the benefits of LABA/ICS combination therapies when compared to ICS given as a monotherapy. In addition to metabolic genes and other adverse effects that are induced by glucocorticoids, there are many other glucocorticoid-inducible genes that have significant anti-inflammatory potential. We therefore advocate a move away from the search for ligands of GR that dissociate transactivation from transrepression. Instead, we submit that ligands should be functionally screened by virtue of their ability to induce or repress biologically-relevant genes in target tissues. In this review, we discuss pharmacological methods by which selective GR modulators and "add-on" therapies may be exploited to improve the clinical efficacy of glucocorticoids while reducing potential adverse effects.

Budesonide/Formoterol pressurized metered-dose inhaler

*The corticosteroid budesonide and the long-acting [beta]2-adrenoceptor agonist formoterol have been combined into a single pressurized metered-dose inhaler (pMDI) for use in patients aged > or =12 years with asthma. *In well designed 12-week clinical trials in patients with mild to moderate or moderate to severe persistent asthma, lung function improved to a significantly greater extent with twice-daily budesonide/formoterol pMDI 160 [micro]g/9 [micro]g or 320 [micro]g/9 [micro]g than with placebo or the same nominal dosage of either of the components alone. *Budesonide/formoterol pMDI was also associated with improvements from baseline in patient-reported asthma control, asthma symptom and asthma-related quality of life outcomes that were significantly greater than those with placebo and, for many endpoints, monotherapy with the individual components. *In a 52-week safety study, treatment with twice-daily budesonide/formoterol pMDI 320 [micro]g/9 [micro]g was associated with rapid and durable improvements in lung function and asthma control that were significantly greater than those with twice-daily budesonide pMDI 640 [micro]g monotherapy. *Budesonide/formoterol pMDI was well tolerated in clinical trials. Its overall adverse event profile is consistent with the known tolerability profiles of long-acting [beta]2-adrenoceptor agonist and inhaled corticosteroid therapy, and is similar to that shown with placebo.

The effect of budesonide and formoterol in one pressurized metered-dose inhaler on patient-reported outcomes in adults with mild-to-moderate persistent asthma

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effects of budesonide and formoterol administered via one pressurized metered-dose inhaler (budesonide/formoterol pMDI) on patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and to determine the contributions of budesonide and formoterol to those effects in adults with asthma.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A 12-week, randomized, double-blind, double-dummy, placebo-controlled, multicenter study was conducted in 480 patients aged > or = 12 years with mild-to-moderate persistent asthma. After a 2-week run-in period during which current asthma therapy was discontinued, patients were randomized to receive two inhalations twice daily of budesonide/formoterol pMDI 80/4.5 microg (160/9 microg), budesonide pMDI 80 microg (160 microg), formoterol via dry powder inhaler (DPI) 4.5 microg (9 microg), or placebo.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Analyses included a subpopulation of 405 patients aged > or = 18 years. PROs included the standardized Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (AQLQ(S)), the Medical Outcomes Study (MOS) Sleep Scale, the Patient Satisfaction with Asthma Medication (PSAM) questionnaire, and asthma control variables (recorded via electronic diaries), such as asthma symptoms, rescue medication use, and nighttime awakenings due to asthma. Patient and physician global assessments were collected at the end of the study.

RESULTS

Patients aged > or = 18 years receiving budesonide/formoterol pMDI reported significantly greater improvements from baseline in AQLQ overall and domain scores, MOS Sleep Scale domain scores, and asthma control variables than patients receiving placebo (p < or = 0.033). Improvements from baseline in AQLQ(S) overall and domain scores, daily asthma symptoms scores, percentage of symptom-free days, percentage of rescue medication-free days, and percentage of asthma control days were significantly greater in patients receiving budesonide/formoterol pMDI versus formoterol DPI (p < or = 0.042). Patients receiving budesonide/formoterol pMDI reported significantly greater PSAM scores than did patients in all other treatment arms (p < or = 0.004). Study limitations may include the fact that the formoterol-alone arm used a different device and formulation than the other active arms as well as the absence of a treatment arm with budesonide and formoterol administered concomitantly in separate inhalers. In addition, these results may not be generalized to all patients with asthma, as this analysis included only patients aged > or = 18 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients receiving treatment with budesonide/formoterol pMDI experienced significantly greater improvements from baseline in asthma-related quality of life, quality of sleep, and asthma control and greater satisfaction with treatment than patients receiving placebo. The combination of budesonide and formoterol in one pMDI is beneficial in improving how a patient feels and functions as a result of treatment.

Budesonide/formoterol: a review of its use as maintenance and reliever inhalation therapy in asthma

The use of combination budesonide/formoterol dry powder inhaler (Symbicort Turbuhaler) for both daily maintenance therapy and as-needed relief of breakthrough symptoms using a single inhaler is a new approach to asthma management that is indicated in patients with persistent asthma not adequately controlled by conventional regimens using reliever therapy with a short-acting beta(2)-adrenoceptor agonist alone. The administration of additional corticosteroid with each reliever inhalation in response to symptoms is expected to provide improved control of airway inflammation.Budesonide/formoterol maintenance and reliever therapy reduced the risk of severe asthma exacerbations compared with conventional regimens using a short-acting beta(2)-adrenoceptor agonist alone as reliever therapy in the majority of trials, while providing similar or better daily asthma control than higher fixed maintenance doses of budesonide or inhaled corticosteroid/long-acting beta(2)-adrenoceptor agonist combination therapy in patients with generally moderate to severe, uncontrolled, persistent asthma. The strategy offers the convenience of a single inhaler and simplifies treatment by providing immediate additional anti-inflammatory medication in response to asthma symptoms and immediate step-down when symptoms abate. The improved efficacy, with respect to exacerbation prevention, observed with budesonide/formoterol maintenance and reliever therapy in all double-blind comparative trials was achieved with a lower mean daily dose of inhaled corticosteroid or with fewer daily inhalations of reliever medication. Budesonide/formoterol maintenance and reliever therapy was well tolerated with an incidence of adverse events similar to that with conventional regimens. Therefore, it offers a new approach to therapy in patients with uncontrolled, persistent asthma; providing improved efficacy with a lower overall drug load.

A Holy Grail of asthma management: toward understanding how long-acting beta(2)-adrenoceptor agonists enhance the clinical efficacy of inhaled corticosteroids

There is unequivocal evidence that the combination of an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) -- i.e. glucocorticoid -- and an inhaled long-acting beta(2)-adrenoceptor agonist (LABA) is superior to each component administered as a monotherapy alone in the clinical management of asthma. Moreover, Calverley and colleagues (Lancet 2003, 361: 449-456; N Engl J Med 2007, 356: 775-789) reporting for the 'TRial of Inhaled STeroids ANd long-acting beta(2)-agonists (TRISTAN)' and 'TOwards a Revolution in COPD Health (TORCH)' international study groups also demonstrated the superior efficacy of LABA/ICS combination therapies over ICS alone in the clinical management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. This finding has been independently confirmed indicating that the therapeutic benefit of LABA/ICS combination therapies is not restricted to asthma and may be extended to other chronic inflammatory diseases of the airways. Despite the unquestionable benefit of LABA/ICS combination therapies, there is a vast gap in our understanding of how these two drugs given together deliver superior clinical efficacy. In this article, we review the history of LABA/ICS combination therapies and critically evaluate how these two classes of drugs might interact at the biochemical level to suppress pro-inflammatory responses. Understanding the molecular basis of this fundamental clinical observation is a Holy Grail of current respiratory diseases research as it could permit the rational exploitation of this effect with the development of new 'optimized' LABA/ICS combination therapies.

Therapeutic comparison of a new budesonide/formoterol pMDI with budesonide pMDI and budesonide/formoterol DPI in asthma

BACKGROUND

Budesonide/formoterol is an effective treatment for both asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. This study compared the efficacy and safety of a novel hydrofluoroalkane (HFA) pressurised metered-dose inhaler (pMDI) formulation of budesonide/formoterol with that of budesonide pMDI and budesonide/formoterol dry-powder inhaler (DPI; Turbuhaler).

METHODS

This was a 12-week, multinational, randomised, double-blind, double-dummy study involving patients aged > or = 12 years with asthma. All patients had a forced expiratory volume in 1 s of 50-90% predicted normal and were inadequately controlled on inhaled corticosteroids (500-1600 microg/day) alone. Following a 2-week run-in, during which they received their usual medication, patients were randomised (two inhalations twice daily) to budesonide pMDI 200 microg, budesonide/formoterol DPI 160/4.5 microg or budesonide/formoterol pMDI 160/4.5 microg. The primary efficacy end-point was change from baseline in morning peak expiratory flow (PEF).

RESULTS

In total, 680 patients were randomised, of whom 668 were included in the primary analysis. Therapeutically equivalent increases in morning PEF were observed with budesonide/formoterol pMDI (29.3 l/min) and budesonide/formoterol DPI (32.0 l/min) (95% confidence interval: -10.4 to 4.9; p = 0.48). The increase in morning PEF with budesonide/formoterol pMDI was significantly higher than with budesonide pMDI (+28.7 l/min; p < 0.001). Similar improvements with budesonide/formoterol pMDI vs. budesonide pMDI were seen for all secondary efficacy end-points. Both combination treatments were similarly well tolerated.

CONCLUSIONS

Budesonide/formoterol, administered via the HFA pMDI or DPI, is an effective and well-tolerated treatment for adult and adolescent patients with asthma, with both devices being therapeutically equivalent.

Efficacy and safety of a new pressurised metered-dose inhaler formulation of budesonide/formoterol in children with asthma: a superiority and therapeutic equivalence study

AIM

This paediatric asthma study evaluated the efficacy and safety of a novel hydrofluoroalkane pressurised metered-dose inhaler (pMDI) formulation of budesonide/formoterol versus budesonide pMDI and budesonide/formoterol dry-powder inhaler (DPI).

METHODS

The study was a 12-week, multinational, double-blind trial involving children (aged 6-11 years) with symptomatic asthma on inhaled corticosteroids (375-1000 microg/day), with a history of exercise-induced bronchoconstriction and peak expiratory flow (PEF) > or =50% of predicted. Patients were randomised (two inhalations twice daily) to budesonide pMDI 100 microg, budesonide/formoterol DPI 80/4.5 microg or budesonide/formoterol pMDI 80/4.5 microg. The primary endpoint was change from baseline in morning PEF.

RESULTS

Overall, 622 patients were randomised. Increases in morning PEF with budesonide/formoterol pMDI and budesonide/formoterol DPI were therapeutically equivalent (29.5 versus 30.2l/min, respectively; 95% confidence interval: -6.0 to 4.6; P=0.78, also confirmed by per-protocol analysis). Improvements in secondary efficacy endpoints with both budesonide/formoterol formulations were not significantly different. Significantly greater improvement was achieved with budesonide/formoterol pMDI versus budesonide pMDI for morning PEF (+9.6l/min; P<0.001) and other lung function parameters. The safety profile of budesonide/formoterol pMDI was favourable and similar to that of budesonide/formoterol DPI and budesonide pMDI.

CONCLUSION

Budesonide/formoterol, administered via the therapeutically equivalent hydrofluoroalkane pMDI or DPI, is an effective and well-tolerated treatment for children with asthma.

Maintenance plus reliever budesonide/formoterol compared with a higher maintenance dose of budesonide/formoterol plus formoterol as reliever in asthma: an efficacy and cost-effectiveness study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate efficacy and cost-effectiveness of budesonide/formoterol (Symbicort) maintenance (one dose once or twice daily) plus additional doses as needed (Symbicort Maintenance And Reliever Therapy, SMART) compared with a higher fixed dose of budesonide/formoterol with formoterol as needed in patients with persistent asthma.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

6-month, open, randomised study of 465 patients either not well controlled on an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS), or well controlled on a combination of ICS and a long-acting beta(2)-agonist (LABA).

TREATMENTS

budesonide/formoterol 160/4.5 microg, one inhalation, once or twice daily maintenance plus additional doses as-needed (1 x SMART or 2 x SMART), or budesonide/formoterol 160/4.5 microg two inhalations twice daily plus formoterol 4.5 microg as needed (2 x 2 FIX + F). Children 6-11 years old used an 80/4.5 microg dose strength. Primary variables of efficacy were the changes in the Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ(5)) and morning peak expiratory flow (PEF).

RESULTS

Mean age of patients 40 years (range 6-82 years); 53% female. No differences between the groups were found in ACQ(5) scores or asthma exacerbation rates. Morning PEF was higher in the 2 x 2 FIX + F group vs. the 1 x SMART and 2 x SMART groups (differences 13 L/min and 9 L/min, respectively; p < 0.002). The 1 x SMART group showed a significant decrease in asthma controlled days compared with the two other groups. No difference was seen between the 2 x SMART group and the 2 x 2 FIX + F group. Treatment costs were significantly lower in the SMART groups compared with the 2 x 2 FIX + F group.

CONCLUSION

Compared with the 2 x 2 FIX + F treatment the use of budesonide/formoterol was 30-40% lower in the SMART groups while maintaining equal ACQ(5) scores. Daily asthma control improved equally with 2 x SMART compared to 2 x 2 FIX + F with a reduction in asthma medication cost. The one dose once daily maintenance treatment (1 x SMART) resulted in a low level of treatment failure (exacerbations) but led to more days with symptoms. Therefore, a daily dose of two inhalations seems to be the lowest appropriate dose in patients with moderate persistent asthma.

Budesonide-formoterol (inhalation powder) in the treatment of COPD

The budesonide-formoterol dry powder inhaler (Symbicort Turbuhaler 160/ 4.5-640/18 microg/day) contains the long-acting beta2-adrenoreceptor agonist formoterol and the inhaled corticosteroid budesonide. Two large, 12-month trials examined the effect of budesonide-formoterol 160/4.5 microg twice daily in COPD patients who met these criteria. The studies were identical, except one in which the patients had received oral prednisolone 30 mg/ day and had inhaled formoterol 4.5 microg twice daily for 2 weeks before randomization. In terms of the FEV1, budesonide-formoterol produced an effect greater than that of both budesonide alone and formoterol alone reported in previous studies. The combination was generally more effective than either of the components in terms of peak expiratory flow, symptoms, and exacerbations. These advantages of the combination over those of either budesonide alone or formoterol alone were quite consistent. Improving lung function and decreasing symptoms significantly, budesonide-formoterol combination therapy provides significant clinical improvements in COPD, despite the limited reversibility of impaired lung function in the disease.

High lung deposition of 99mTc-labeled ciclesonide administered via HFA-MDI to patients with asthma

OBJECTIVE

To examine the deposition and pharmacokinetics of ciclesonide administered via hydrofluoroalkane-metered dose inhaler (HFA-MDI) in patients with asthma.

METHODS

Twelve patients with mild asthma (FEV1, 95% predicted) inhaled a single dose of 99mtechnetium (Tc)-ciclesonide 320 microg ex-actuator (400 microg ex-valve). Deposition of ciclesonide in the lung and oropharynx was quantified using two-dimensional (2D)-gamma scintigraphy. Three-dimensional single photon emission computed tomography (3D SPECT) was used to assess the regional distribution of ciclesonide in the lung. The pharmacokinetics of ciclesonide and its active metabolite, desisobutyryl-ciclesonide (des-CIC), were determined by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Ciclesonide and des-CIC concentrations were determined in mouth-rinsing solutions.

RESULTS

2D-gamma scintigraphy indicated that ciclesonide deposition was higher in the whole lung (52%) than in the oropharynx (32.9%). Furthermore, 3D SPECT revealed that ciclesonide deposition within the lungs was highest in the peripheral regions that contain the small airways and alveoli. The pharmacokinetic profile of Tc-labeled ciclesonide and des-CIC was similar to that obtained after inhalation of non-labeled formulations in previous studies. Des-CIC accounted for 14.9% of the total molar concentration of ciclesonide/des-CIC in mouth-rinsing solutions obtained between 7 and 12min after inhalation.

CONCLUSION

Inhalation of ciclesonide via HFA-MDI results in high pulmonary deposition, especially in the peripheral regions of the lung. High pulmonary deposition contributes to ciclesonide's ability to maintain lung function and control symptoms in patients with asthma. Deposition and activation of ciclesonide in the oropharynx is low, consistent with previous reports of low oropharyngeal deposition and a reduced incidence of local side effects in patients receiving ciclesonide therapy.

Combination therapy of long-acting beta agonists and inhaled corticosteroids in the management of chronic asthma

Both the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) and the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) Expert Panel guidelines recommend combination treatment with inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs) and inhaled long-acting beta-agonists (LABAs) for patients whose asthma is not adequately controlled by low doses of ICSs alone. Not only is this combination more effective than the combination of either theophylline or leukotriene modifiers with ICSs, there is suggestive evidence that the results with LABAs and ICSs may be more than additive. Through the effect of each one on the receptor for the other, they may have a synergistic action. This marked effectiveness of the combination, particularly when combined in the same device, has led to new objectives and novel applications. Therefore, for the first time, it appears that the Goals of Asthma Therapy, as outlined in the guidelines, are achievable for many patients with asthma. Also, at least for combination therapies including formoterol, adjustable dosing and perhaps even use as a rescue as well as a maintenance therapy may be possible.