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AstraZeneca announces results from Fasenra trial

Results from the OSTRO Phase III trial showed AstraZeneca’s Fasenra (benralizumab) compared with placebo demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in the size of nasal polyps and in nasal blockage in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP).
Fasenra demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in the endoscopic total nasal polyp score (NPS) and the nasal blockage score (NBS) compared to placebo, in patients with severe bilateral nasal polyposis who were still symptomatic despite continued treatment with standard of care (SoC). SoC consists of intranasal corticosteroids (INCS) and prior surgery and/or use of systemic corticosteroids. Evaluation of NPS was based on a physician assessment of polyp size during endoscopy. NBS evaluation was based on a patient-reported symptoms diary.
CRSwNP is an inflammatory disease associated with elevated levels of eosinophils in the upper respiratory tract and characterised by benign growths called nasal polyps.1,2 Polyps can cause nasal blockage and discharge, reduction or loss in the sense of smell, sleep disturbances and other adverse effects on quality of life.
The OSTRO data indicate Fasenra can benefit patients with nasal polyps
“Patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps suffer significantly with nasal congestion and a reduced quality of life. Current treatments, such as intranasal or oral corticosteroids and surgery to remove polyps, do not fully address patient needs. The OSTRO data indicate Fasenra can benefit patients with nasal polyps. We look forward to completing the full analysis and sharing these results at an upcoming medical meeting,” says Mene Pangalos, Executive Vice President, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca.
The safety profile and tolerability of Fasenra in this trial were consistent with the known profile of the medicine.
Fasenra is currently approved as an add-on maintenance treatment for severe eosinophilic asthma in the US, EU, Japan and other countries and is approved for self-administration in the US, EU and other countries.
Photo of Mene Pangalos: AstraZeneca
Published: September 14, 2020