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New Drug for Bronchiectasis: Brensocatib (Brinsupri) Explained

Illustration of a healthcare professional with lungs and medication, representing a new drug for bronchiectasis treatment.

You may have seen headlines about a new drug for bronchiectasis. In August 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Brensocatib (brand name Brinsupri)—the first drug developed specifically for people living with non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis.

This is big news, because until now there have been no approved drug treatments for this condition. But what exactly is Brensocatib, how does it work, and what does it mean for people here in Australia?

What is Brensocatib?

Brensocatib is a tablet taken once a day. It’s designed for people aged 12 and older with non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis.

Unlike antibiotics that treat infections or inhalers that open the airways, Brensocatib works differently. It blocks an enzyme called DPP-1, which activates certain white blood cells (neutrophils). In bronchiectasis, neutrophils can become overactive, releasing substances that cause ongoing airway inflammation and lung damage.

By calming this process, Brensocatib aims to reduce the number of flare-ups (exacerbations).

What does the research say?

Brensocatib has been tested in large international trials:

  • In the ASPEN trial (over 1,700 people, 52 weeks), those taking Brensocatib had around 19–21% fewer flare-ups per year compared to placebo.
  • More people on the drug remained flare-up-free for the full year.
  • The higher dose also showed a slower decline in lung function.
  • Side effects were mostly mild. The most common were headache, rash, dry skin, high blood pressure, and gum or dental issues.

These findings were published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2025 — you can read the full paper here.

The takeaway? Brensocatib is not a cure, but it’s the first drug to show a meaningful reduction in flare-ups for people with non-CF bronchiectasis.

What this means for people in Australia

Although FDA approval is a major milestone, Brensocatib is not yet available in Australia. Before it can be prescribed here, it must be evaluated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and may then be considered for subsidy through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). This process can take time.

Other important points:

  • Cost: In the U.S., the list price is very high (around US $88,000 per year). Pricing and subsidies in Australia are not yet known.
  • Not suitable for everyone: Brensocatib will likely be used for people who still experience frequent flare-ups despite standard care.
  • Part of a bigger picture: Even if available here, it would be an add-on treatment, not a replacement for daily management strategies.

The role of physiotherapy

While it’s encouraging to see new drugs being developed, the cornerstone of bronchiectasis care remains day-to-day management—and this is where physiotherapy plays a central role.

At Heart & Lung Physio, we support people with bronchiectasis by:

  • Airway clearance: teaching and tailoring the right techniques and devices to keep lungs clear.
  • Inhaler technique: checking that inhaled medications are being used correctly and effectively.
  • Exercise programs: designing safe, personalised exercise plans to support lung function, stamina, and overall health.
  • Education and support: helping people understand their condition, make sense of their symptoms, and know how to respond early to flare-ups.

If you’re living with bronchiectasis and want support in any of these areas, you can contact us to discuss your needs or request an appointment to review your current management plan

Final thoughts

The approval of Brensocatib in the U.S. is an exciting step forward in bronchiectasis treatment. While it may take some time before it’s available in Australia, the daily strategies you use now remain the most powerful tools for staying well.

At Heart & Lung Physio, we work alongside your medical team to provide the practical support you need—so you can stay in control of your health today, while new treatments continue to emerge.

FAQs About Brensocatib

Is Brensocatib a cure for bronchiectasis?

No. Brensocatib can reduce the number of flare-ups, but it doesn’t cure bronchiectasis or reverse existing lung damage. Daily management—like airway clearance, exercise, and inhaler use—remains essential.

When will Brensocatib be available in Australia?

We don’t know yet. Brensocatib is only approved in the United States. In Australia, it needs approval from the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and may also need to be listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). No timeline has been announced, so it’s not yet available for patients here.

What are the side effects of Brensocatib?

In clinical trials, the most common side effects were headache, rash, dry skin, high blood pressure, and gum or dental problems. Most were mild and manageable, but your GP or respiratory specialist would monitor you closely if you were prescribed the drug.