Pulmonology Month in Review: April 2025

In April, pulmonology research brought forward new evidence supporting advances in care for several chronic and burdensome respiratory conditions. In eosinophilic COPD, a phase 3 trial found that add-on mepolizumab therapy significantly reduced exacerbation rates compared to placebo, pointing to a valuable new option for patients who continue to experience symptoms despite standard treatment. In bronchiectasis, the oral DPP1 inhibitor brensocatib demonstrated positive outcomes in preserving lung function and reducing exacerbations, marking a potential milestone in the search for targeted therapies for this underserved population.

Other noteworthy findings included the impact of cytisinicline, a plant-based alkaloid, which significantly improved abstinence rates among adults trying to quit smoking—highlighting its potential role in reducing tobacco-related disease burden. Pediatric asthma care also received attention, with results from a school-based therapy program showing improved asthma control and reduced healthcare utilization among children, reinforcing the benefit of accessible, community-integrated approaches. Together, these studies reflect continued momentum in both therapeutic innovation and care delivery strategies across the respiratory field.

Check out this April 2025 pulmonology month in review for a recap of HCPLive’s coverage of the top hepatic news and research from the past few weeks:

New Phase 3 Data for COPD, Bronchiectasis

Add-On Mepolizumab Decreases Exacerbations in Eosinophilic COPD
A study demonstrated that adding mepolizumab to standard therapy reduced exacerbation rates in patients with eosinophilic COPD. These findings support the potential role of mepolizumab as an effective add-on treatment for this patient population.​

Brensocatib Improved Outcomes, Slowed Decline in People With Bronchiectasis
Brensocatib showed efficacy in reducing pulmonary exacerbations and slowing disease progression in patients with non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis. The positive results from the Phase 3 trial suggest brensocatib could become a novel therapeutic option for this underserved population.​

New Research and Conversations on Smoking

Cytisinicline Significantly Helped People Who Smoke Remain Abstinent
Cytisinicline was found to aid smoking cessation efforts, helping individuals maintain abstinence from tobacco use. This agent may offer a new pharmacologic option for smoking cessation support.​

Welcome Back to The Respiratory Report: 3rd Edition
The third edition of The Respiratory Report highlights recent advancements in pulmonary research, including studies on CT scan result communication, depression treatment in COPD, and potential therapies for emphysema. These updates reflect ongoing efforts to improve respiratory care through innovative research and clinical practice improvements.​

RELATED: Investigating COPD Pathogenesis: Abnormal Iron Homeostasis in Alveolar Macrophages

Improving Outcomes for Children With Asthma

School-Based Asthma Therapy Improved Children’s Asthma Control, Reduced HCRU
Implementing asthma therapy programs within schools led to better asthma control and decreased healthcare resource utilization among children. This approach underscores the effectiveness of accessible, community-based interventions in managing pediatric asthma.