The new kinase inhibitor nintedanib has been found quite effective in reducing the progression of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). In general, the drug is used in cancer treatment, but has not been approved by US FDA.

Scientists from Southampton General Hospital affirmed the drug works by blocking the chemical signals that could activate the disease. The drug has been found effective in two studies.

Researchers have compared the breathing capacity of 638 people with IPF who used the drug and compared the same with 423 people who took placebo. "Breathing capacity is measured by the amount of air a person can expel after their deepest breath, which is seriously affected in IPF sufferers", said researchers.

After comparing, researchers noted decline in the breathing capacity of patients taking the drug. The decline was by around 50% over the two studies. The research team expects that the drug will get regulatory approval within next year and patients would be able to use the drug in the coming time.

Lead scientist Professor Luca Richeldi said the drug nintedanib does have the potential to offer a new sense of direction when it comes to treating the aggressive disease. Luca shared that the drug works by targeting some key molecular pathways considered being involved in IPF.

The IPF condition affects mainly men and former smokers. It takes place due to inflammation and scarring of lung tissues. Around 5,000 lose their lives due to this condition and 5,000 new cases get diagnosed annually. Its sufferers are said to have an average life expectancy between three and five years. Its advance use program is expected to begin in Europe next summer.