The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency has granted marketing authorisation for brensocatib (Brinsupri), a new medicine for people aged 12 and over with non‑cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis who have experienced two or more flare‑ups in the past year.
NCFB is a chronic lung condition in which damaged airways lead to long‑term inflammation, persistent coughing and mucus build‑up. Although it can affect people of all ages, it is more commonly diagnosed in older adults.
Brensocatib is the first medicine of its kind to be approved in the UK for preventing flare‑ups in NCFB. It works by blocking dipeptidyl peptidase 1 – a protein involved in activating inflammatory cells in the lungs. By targeting this pathway, the treatment reduces inflammation, helping to prevent flare‑ups and potentially improve symptoms.
The medicine is taken once daily as an oral tablet.
The most commonly reported side effects of brensocatib include:
- Nose and throat infections
- Diarrhoea and vomiting
- Headache
- Gum problems
- Hyperkeratosis (small areas of thickened skin)
- Rash
- Dry or inflamed skin (dermatitis)
- Hair loss (alopecia)
A full list of side effects and safety information will be available in the Patient Information Leaflet and the Summary of Product Characteristics, which MHRA will publish within seven days of approval.
People living with NCFB often face recurrent flare‑ups that can lead to worsening respiratory symptoms, hospital admissions and reduced quality of life. Until now, treatment options have mainly focused on managing symptoms rather than preventing exacerbations.
MHRA Executive Director for Healthcare Quality and Access, Julian Beach, commented:
“This is the first medicine licensed in the UK that specifically treats patients living with non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis.
“As with any medicine, the MHRA will keep the safety and effectiveness of brensocatib under close review.”
The approval of brensocatib offers a new targeted therapy aimed at tackling the underlying inflammatory process, giving clinicians a new option to help patients control this long‑term condition.
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