The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency has granted marketing authorisation for brensocatib, branded as Brinsupri, marking the first time a medicine specifically designed to treat non‑cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis has been licensed in the UK.
The approval covers patients aged 12 and older who have experienced two or more flare‑ups or worsening of symptoms in the past year.
Non‑cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis is a chronic condition in which damaged airways lead to persistent cough and mucus production, affecting people of all ages but more commonly older adults.
Brensocatib works by targeting dipeptidyl peptidase 1, a protein involved in the inflammatory process within the lungs. By blocking its activity, the treatment aims to prevent flare‑ups and may improve symptoms associated with the condition.
Julian Beach, MHRA Executive Director for Healthcare Quality and Access, said: “This is the first medicine licensed in the UK that specifically treats patients living with non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis.”
He added: “As with any medicine, the MHRA will keep the safety and effectiveness of brensocatib under close review.”
The treatment is taken orally once a day in tablet form. Common side effects include nose and throat infection, diarrhoea, vomiting, headache, gum problems, small areas of skin thickening, rash, dryness and inflammation of the skin, and hair loss.
A full list of side effects will be available in the Patient Information Leaflet and the Summary of Product Characteristics, both due to be published on the MHRA website within seven days of approval.
