GSK cuts some respiratory targets, keeps others in play

GlaxoSmithKline plc (LSE:GSK; NYSE:GSK) cut three respiratory programs against targets largely ignored by the rest of the industry after all three failed to meet efficacy targets in Phase II trials. The pharma disclosed the pruning in its 3Q18 earnings released Wednesday, leaving four other programs, including three potential first-in-class programs, in its respiratory pipeline.

GSK discontinued danirixin (GSK1325756), a CXC chemokine receptor 2 (CXCR2; IL8RB) antagonist, based on an interim analysis of a Phase IIb trial showed that it did not meet the primary endpoint. "This has changed the understanding of the risk/benefit profile of this asset in COPD," GSK said in their earnings statement...