Current optimization of combined therapy for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Abstract

Testing the new combined bronchodilator Anoro Ellipta in different clinical trials gives proof to its high clinical efficacy and safety in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The drug contains the molecules of a sustained-release selective β2-adrenergic receptor agonist (vilanterol) and a muscarinic cholinergic receptor antagonist (umeclidinium bromide). The bronchodilating mechanisms of umeclidinium bromide are in the competitive inhibition of the binding of acetylcholine with muscarinic acetylcholine receptors of airway smooth muscles whereas in those of vilanterol are in that with the stimulation of intracellular adenylate cyclase. On days 1 and 24 after inhalation of the first dose of vilanterol and umeclidinium bromide, there was a significant increase in the forced expiratory volume in one second as compared to placebo. No clinical effects on QT interval on an electrocardiogram and cardiac rhythm were found. The benefits of an inhalation device (Ellipta) are its innovation design ensuring the effective delivery of an aerosol dose into the airway, convenience, and simplicity.

Keywords

• chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• umeclidinium bromide
• vilanterol
• anoro ellipta