Delivering monoclonal antibodies via inhalation: a systematic review of clinical trials in asthma and COPD

IntroductionAdvances in understanding the pathophysiology of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) led to investigation of biologic drugs targeting specific inflammatory pathways. No biologics are licensed for COPD while all the approved monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) for severe asthma treatment are systemically administered. Systemic administration is associated with low target tissue exposure and risk of systemic adverse events. Thus, delivering mAbs via inhalation may be an attractive approach for asthma and COPD treatment due to direct targeting of the airways.Areas coveredThis systematic review of randomized control trials (RCTs) evaluated the potential role of delivering mAbs via inhalation in asthma and COPD treatment. Five RCTs were deemed eligible for a qualitative analysis.Expert opinionCompared to systemic administration, delivering mAbs via inhalation is associated with rapid onset of action, greater efficacy at lower doses, minimal systemic exposure, and lower risk of adverse events. Although some of the inhaled mAbs included in this study showed a certain level of efficacy and safety in asthmatic patients, delivering mAbs via inhalation is still challenging and controversial. Further adequately powered and well-designed RCTs are needed to assess the potential role of inhaled mAbs in the treatment of asthma and COPD.

Automated summary

This article evaluates the potential role of delivering monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) via inhalation in the treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) through a systematic review of randomized control trials (RCTs). Compared to systemic administration, delivering mAbs via inhalation offers faster onset of action, greater efficacy at lower doses, minimal systemic exposure, and lower risk of adverse events. However, the delivery of mAbs via inhalation remains challenging and controversial, and further well-designed RCTs are needed to assess their potential role in asthma and COPD treatment.