BrightGene's tiotropium inhalation powder gets trial green light

BrightGene Bio-Medical Technology's subsidiary, AiteMe Pharmaceutical Technology, has received approval from the National Medical Products Administration to conduct clinical trials for its tiotropium bromide inhalation powder. The drug is intended for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Tiotropium bromide is a bronchodilator used for the maintenance treatment of COPD, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. According to PharmaBI®IPM database, sales of tiotropium bromide inhalation powder in China reached CNY 5.55 billion in 2022, CNY 5.22 billion in 2023 and CNY 4.93 billion in 2024. While this approval is a significant step, BrightGene cautions that the drug still requires further clinical trials and regulatory approval before it can be commercialized. The company also notes the inherent risks and uncertainties associated with pharmaceutical research and development.