PPF is a broad term used to describe a gradual worsening of lung scarring, causing a progressive loss in lung function.
PPF is linked to different interstitial lung diseases that may be caused by autoimmune disorders; allergic reactions; exposure to harmful substances such as asbestos or silica; or, sometimes, unknown causes.
The diagnosis of PPF is often delayed by up to two years, with many patients not receiving treatment. Jascayd is the first medicine of its kind approved for PPF. It works by blocking a specific enzyme called phosphodiesterase 4B (PDE4B) that drives inflammation and scarring in the lungs. By blocking PDE4B, Jascayd prevents the “signals” that tell your body to create more scar tissue and inflammation. Reduced inflammation and scarring slows down the progression of the disease and helps preserve lung function. This approval matters as Jascayd’s unique way of working and oral form may make it a helpful option for some people, adding to existing treatments such as nintedanib and pirfenidone.
Why Was It Approved?
Jascayd was approved after clinical studies showed that it helped slow down lung damage in adults with PPF. In the study, patients taking Jascayd lost significantly less lung capacity – about half as much – as those taking a placebo over one year. Lung function was measured using a test called forced vital capacity (FVC) that shows the maximum amount of air you can breathe out after taking the deepest possible breath. In the trial, patients taking Jascayd 18 mg or 9 mg twice a day, over 52 weeks, lost 86 mL and 69 mL of lung capacity (FVC), compared to 152 mL with the placebo, representing treatment differences of 65 mL and 83 mL, respectively. In longer-term follow-up (up to 109 weeks), Jascayd 18 mg lowered the risk of lung flare-ups by about 40% and may also reduce hospital visits by around 18%, compared to the placebo. While the study suggested Jascayd might help people live longer, this was not the main goal of the study. Because the research was not specifically designed to measure survival, these results are considered preliminary and do not prove that the medicine will extend life. The most common side effects included mild to moderate diarrhea (within first three months of therapy), weight loss, low appetite, nausea, vomiting, headaches, tiredness, dizziness, depression, backaches, and upper respiratory infections. Diarrhea was especially common in people who were also taking another lung medicine called nintedanib.
What Do I Need to Know?
You take Jascayd by mouth twice daily, about 12 hours apart. You can take it with or without food. The usual dose is 18 mg twice daily. Your health care provider may lower the dose to 9 mg twice daily if they see you have side effects. But if you’re also taking another medicine called pirfenidone, you should stay on the full dose. If you have trouble swallowing pills, you can mix the tablet in water (do NOT crush). Stir it for 15-20 minutes until it breaks into tiny pieces and drink it. Don’t take more than two 18 mg tablets in a day. If you miss a dose, you can just take the next one at your regular time. Don’t double up. Jascayd may affect how other medicines work, and other medicines may affect how Jascayd works. Be sure to tell your health care provider about all the details of your medical history, such as liver or kidney issues, along with medicines, over-the-counter products, herbal remedies, vitamins, and health supplements. Jascayd is not recommended in case of serious kidney or liver problems. It may also raise the risk of pregnancy loss (miscarriage). It’s not known if the medicine passes into breast milk. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, talk to your health care provider before starting this medicine. Contact your health care provider right away if you become pregnant or think you are pregnant while taking Jascayd.
