On Tuesday, 18 November, the European Commission adopted a decision concerning the market authorisation for brensocatib, a new active substance intended to treat chronic progressive non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis (NCFB) in patients aged 12 and older.
This rare disease affects between 400,000 and three million people in Europe and is characterised by damaged airways and severe pulmonary dysfunction. It often causes chronic cough and airflow obstruction.
Bronchiectasis is caused by repeated infections and inflammation, which may result from respiratory infections, autoimmune diseases, or immunodeficiency disorders. Currently, there are no approved treatments that directly target this disease—making brensocatib a response to an important medical need. The [market] authorisation is based on a positive scientific assessment (https://aeur.eu/f/jhu ) from the European Medicines Agency (EMA). The medicine is available on prescription and may cause certain side effects, which are mentioned in the patient information leaflet. It is not recommended for use during pregnancy. (Original version in French by Lionel Changeur)