Efficacy of Dupilumab on Reducing COPD Flare-ups

STUDY BASICS

Are you 40-80 years old and diagnosed with COPD? If so, you may be able to participate in a study to help evaluate the ability of a study drug called dupilumab to improve lung function and reduce the number of COPD flare-ups. Participation will last 68 weeks with several visits to the Emphysema COPD Research Center in Oakland. Compensation is provided.

STUDY PURPOSE

The main goal of this clinical trial is to evaluate the ability of the study drug dupilumab to improve lung function and reduce the annual rate of moderate and severe COPD exacerbations (or flareups characterized by increased shortness of breath, increased sputum production, and cold-like symptoms, often requiring treatment with antibiotics or steroids).

Some COPD patients have an inflammatory pattern that is characterized by elevated blood eosinophils (inflammatory white blood cells).  It is believed that dupilumab will reduce blood eosinophil levels in COPD patients, resulting in a reduction of COPD exacerbations.

WHAT PARTICIPANTS CAN EXPECT

The study drug is an injectable medication that is placed subcutaneously (under the skin).  Participants will receive a subcutaneous injection every 2 weeks.  Drug administration will be performed by the study doctor or a certified healthcare professional.  After you or a designated caregiver has been properly trained on the administration and monitoring of the study drug, certain doses may be administered at home with the approval of your study doctor.

Eligible participants will be randomly assigned to one of two treatment groups.  One group will receive 300 mg of dupilumab, while the other group will receive placebo.