Phase II Study of IC485 in COPD Does Not Meet Primary Efficacy Endpoint

ICOS has announced that a Phase II study of IC485, an inhibitor of phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4), in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease did not meet the primary endpoint of improving lung function.

The study, which enrolled 258 patients, evaluated IC485 at three doses compared to placebo. "While we are disappointed with the IC485 study results, we continue to believe that PDE4 inhibitors may prove beneficial in the treatment of inflammatory disorders," said David Goodkin, vice president, development and chief medical officer.

"Details of the clinical study results will be presented at an upcoming scientific meeting. We will now shift our focus to preclinical-stage PDE4 inhibitors that are more potent and have other characteristics that enhance the probability of clinical success," he said.