Boehringer Ingelheim launches the First Approved Treatment for Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis in Algeria

Algiers, Algeria, Sun, 12/03/2023 - 06:00

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a rare and progressive respiratory condition that places a substantial burden on patients and the Algerian healthcare system¹.
The antifibrotic molecule Nintedanib, is the only treatment for IPF approved by the Algerian Ministry of Health, significantly reduces the progression of the disease by reducing the decline in lung function^2,3,4,5,6,7.
This is the first time that an approved antifibrotic medication will be available for IPF patients residing in the country.

Boehringer Ingelheim, a leading research-driven biopharmaceutical company, today announced the launch of its antifibrotic medication for the treatment of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) in Algeria. Nintedanib is the only treatment for IPF approved by the Ministry of Health of Algeria that can slow progression of lung function decline and comes as a much-needed relief for IPF patients across the country^2,3,4,5,6,7.

IPF is a life-threatening condition of the lungs where the tissue becomes thickened, stiff, and scarred over a period of time. The lungs lose their ability to take in and transfer oxygen into the bloodstream. It affects as many as 14–43 people per 100,000 worldwide ⁸, and while research has identified key factors in the development of IPF, no direct cause is known. The symptoms vary from person to person, but in some patients, it can lead to shortness of breath and the organs not receiving enough oxygen to function properly.

Marianne Abouelkheir, General Manager and Head of Human Pharma at Boehringer Ingelheim for Northeast & West Africa region, said, "In the past, there were no approved antifibrotic medications available for IPF patients making it one of the unmet medical needs in the country. We at Boehringer Ingelheim are proud to have received the approval of the Algerian Ministry of Health for Nintedanib as the only treatment option available for IPF patients. Building on over 100 years in respiratory care, we aim to improve comprehensive understanding of the patients, their caregivers, and the community at large about the conditions and the available solutions that can help them tackle the burden of this debilitating condition.

Dr. Mohamed Bouledroua, Medical Director, said, "IPF, known for its irreversible impact on lung function ⁹, faces a new frontier with an approved treatment breakthrough in the country. This milestone offers hope in slowing the progression of lung-function decline, alleviating symptoms for IPF patients. The approval reflects our commitment to delivering vital therapies, meeting unmet medical needs, and empowering healthcare professionals to achieve comprehensive patient care."

Prof. Merzak Gharnaout, Pneumo-allergology professor and President of the Algerian Society of Pneumology said, "The approval of Nintedanib in Algeria represents a significant advancement for IPF patients. While lung fibrosis is irreversible, having an antifibrotic therapy option for IPF treatment in Algeria offers hope by slowing the decline in lung function for those with this life-altering condition. This milestone not only provides relief to our healthcare system but also elevates the standard of care for our patients."

Nintedanib is already approved in more than 80 countries for the treatment of individuals diagnosed with IPF. In addition to providing innovative medical solutions, Boehringer Ingelheim has created a bilingual website in English and Arabic called Life With Pulmonary Fibrosis. This website equips patients with essential information and tools to help them find ways to manage their condition effectively.

About Boehringer Ingelheim
Boehringer Ingelheim is working on breakthrough therapies that improve the lives of humans and animals. As a leading research-driven biopharmaceutical company, the company creates value through innovation in areas of high unmet medical need. Founded in 1885 and family-owned ever since, Boehringer Ingelheim takes a long-term perspective. Around 52,000 employees serve more than 130 markets in the three business areas, Human Pharma, Animal Health, and Biopharmaceutical Contract Manufacturing. Learn more at www.boehringer-ingelheim.com.

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Soualmi, R., Sidi Ali, M., Tabbi, I., Gharnaout, M., Kadi, A., Yildiz, L., & Cheynel, J. (2018). PRS33 - the clinical and economic burden of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in Algeria. Value in Health, 21. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jval.2018.09.2427
Rivera-Ortega P, Hayton C, Blaikley J, Leonard C, Chaudhuri N. Nintedanib in the management of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: clinical trial evidence and real-world experience. Ther Adv Respir Dis. 2018 Jan-Dec;12:1753466618800618. doi: 10.1177/1753466618800618. PMID: 30249169; PMCID: PMC6156214.
Nintedanib Prescribing Information. Ridgefield, CT: Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals, Inc; 2022.
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Yu QY, Tang XX. Irreversibility of Pulmonary Fibrosis. Aging Dis. 2022 Feb 1;13(1):73-86. doi: 10.14336/AD.2021.0730. PMID: 35111363; PMCID: PMC8782547