Verona Pharma (VRNA) Leerink Global Healthcare Conference 2025 summary

Product launch and market adoption

• Ohtuvayre has seen a strong launch in COPD, driven by its novel PDE3/PDE4 inhibition, broad label, and lack of direct branded competition.

• The drug is being prescribed across a wide spectrum of COPD patients, including those on single, dual, and triple therapy.

• Early adoption is robust, with over 4,600 prescribers and 55% of Tier 1 physicians writing prescriptions within seven months.

• Promotional efforts include 120 field personnel targeting 14,500 physicians, supported by digital and omnichannel activities.

• Key internal metrics for 2025 include total writers, writer productivity, and refill persistency.

Access, reimbursement, and distribution

• Ohtuvayre is primarily reimbursed under the medical benefit, with 80% of patients covered by Medicare Part B or Advantage, resulting in minimal prior authorizations and low out-of-pocket costs.

• Over 80% of patients pay less than $10 per prescription, supporting broad access.

• The exclusive specialty pharmacy network (CVS, Acaria, CenterWell, DirectRx) enhances patient adherence and provides direct communication and support.

• Patient consent allows for proactive engagement from both the specialty pharmacy and the company, improving adherence and education.

Pipeline and future development

• Two phase II programs are underway: one in non-CF bronchiectasis (180-patient, event-driven trial) and another for a fixed-dose combination with glycopyrrolate.

• Top-line results for bronchiectasis are expected in late 2026 or early 2027, with the combination trial starting in H2 2025 and results anticipated in late 2026.

• The combination product aims to offer dual bronchodilation and anti-inflammatory benefits, targeting earlier use in the treatment paradigm.

• The pipeline is expected to provide incremental and notable revenue growth, with Ohtuvayre remaining a cornerstone through 2035 and beyond.