NTM are ubiquitous environmental pathogens that can cause progressive lung damage and respiratory failure, particularly in patients with compromised immune systems or underlying pulmonary disorders. Although rare, the incidence of NTM pulmonary disease is increasing worldwide. It is estimated that approximately 130,000 patients suffer from NTM in the U.S. and Europe, a figure that is growing at a rate of 8% annually.
The elderly and people with compromised immune or lung function are at greatest risk, as are patients with bronchiectasis for whom it is estimated that up to 50% may also have active NTM pulmonary disease.
Treatment of NTM pulmonary disease requires prolonged therapy (continuing for approximately 12 to 24 months) with a combination of drugs approved for other infections and is frequently complicated by tolerability and/or toxicity issues. There are currently no oral antibiotics specifically approved for use to treat NTM pulmonary disease. NTM is also associated with high healthcare costs and high mortality. In 2014, the annual cost in the U.S. alone was estimated at $1.7 billion.
SPR720: Potential to be the first approved novel oral agent for NTM.
SPR720 is a broad spectrum, oral candidate that, if approved, may be applicable to both non-refractory and refractory patients. Once daily dosing is supported by clinical and non-clinical studies.
SPR720: Potential to address a large unmet need in NTM disease.
In NTM, treatment failure is common and the current treatment for NTM is lengthy and involves combination therapy, often including three or more antibiotics, including injectables.
NTM Info & Research is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization formed for patient support, medical education and to help accelerate research.
Patients can follow the progress of SPR720 as the candidate moves through clinical trials. ClinicalTrials.gov is a database of clinical studies conducted worldwide.
