Inhaled Therapy Reduced Lung Pressure in Clinical Study
The PHocus trial demonstrated significant improvements in pulmonary vascular resistance for patients with PH-ILD.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Heart Disease
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A phase 2 clinical study of the inhaled drug mosliciguat reported a 51.3 percent reduction in pulmonary vascular resistance among patients with pulmonary hypertension associated with interstitial lung disease. The findings also noted improved exercise capacity and lower cardiac stress biomarkers compared to a placebo group.
Why it matters
Pulmonary hypertension associated with interstitial lung disease currently faces a scarcity of approved treatment options. This study offers a potential new path for managing the condition by delivering targeted vasodilation while limiting systemic exposure.
In a study of 135 patients, those treated with mosliciguat showed a 20.3-meter improvement in the 6-minute walk test and a 53.2 percent decrease in NT-proBNP levels from baseline. Reported cough occurred in 12.1 percent of treated participants.
The details
Mosliciguat functions by binding directly to the sGC enzyme to provide pulmonary vasodilation locally. Participants received either the inhaled medication or a placebo daily over a 24-week period to assess both physical performance and physiological markers.
Timeline
16 weeks for the primary outcome of pulmonary vascular resistance measurement.
24 weeks for the completion of daily drug or placebo administration.
September 2026 marked the presentation of results at the ERS International Congress.
The Big Picture
The results from the PHocus trial serve as the precursor to the PHrontier phase 3 trial, which aims to confirm the therapeutic efficacy of this pathway. This progress marks a shift in pulmonary research as investigators seek to address gaps in treatment for interstitial lung disease.
This development suggests a potential future treatment option for patients currently limited by a lack of approved therapies. Patients may eventually have access to a targeted inhaled medication that aims to improve mobility and reduce cardiac stress markers with limited systemic side effects.
The takeaway
This study highlights the potential for locally delivered medication to effectively treat complex pulmonary conditions. Patients should consult with specialists to stay informed about the progress of phase 3 trials and future treatment availability.
What happens next
The PHrontier phase 3 study is currently underway to evaluate the long-term safety and efficacy of mosliciguat for patients with PH-ILD.
Further reading
For additional context on research in this field, visit the Heart Disease section.
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