PhRMA : More Than 50 Medicines in Development for COPD, Third Leading Cause of Death in U.S.

February 2, 2012 — America’s biopharmaceutical research companies are working on 54 medicines to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), according to a report released by the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA). These exciting therapies are in late-stage development, meaning they are either in clinical trials or awaiting review by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Today, more than 13 million American adults suffer from COPD, one of the most common lung diseases in the U.S. A chronic, progressive lower respiratory disease that encompasses two main conditions – chronic bronchitis and emphysema – COPD is characterized by obstructed airflow to the lungs that interferes with normal breathing. People with COPD may be limited in their ability to work, exercise and perform routine activities.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the number of patients with COPD is increasing. In addition to those who have been diagnosed with the disease, 12 million Americans likely have COPD without knowing it.

“Early detection of COPD is imperative, as effective treatment can change the course and progression of this devastating disease,” said PhRMA President and CEO John J. Castellani. “The promising new therapies highlighted in this report illustrate how emerging scientific approaches to treating respiratory diseases such as COPD offer great hope to improve and save the lives of future patients.”... PhRMA's Press Release -