Sanofi and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals have received European Commission approval for their drug Dupixent (dupilumab) to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a significant milestone for the companies and a potential new treatment option for the approximately 220,000 adults with the condition in the European Union. The approval, announced on February 28, 2026, marks the first targeted therapy for COPD in the EU and the first new treatment approach in over a decade, according to Sanofi.
The European Medicines Agency (EMA) granted the approval based on data from two studies demonstrating a significant reduction in exacerbations and improved lung function in patients treated with Dupixent. Exacerbations refer to a worsening of chronic conditions, and the drug’s ability to address these and improve lung function were key to the EMA’s decision.
Dupixent is already approved for use in treating asthma and neurodermatitis. Sanofi reported generating €10.7 billion in revenue from the drug in 2023 and anticipates approximately €13 billion in revenue for the current year. Regeneron recognizes its share of Dupixent revenue through collaboration earnings with Sanofi, which totaled $910 million in the first quarter of 2024.
The companies are currently seeking approval for COPD treatment in other regions, including the United States, China, and Japan.
Despite the positive development for Sanofi and Regeneron, analysts at DER AKTIONÄR favor AstraZeneca and Novartis within the European pharmaceutical sector. However, Regeneron’s stock remains a “hold” recommendation for the firm, having increased by over 85 percent in value.
Recent research published in Frontiers in Oncology (February 11, 2026) details a phase 3 study of datopotamab deruxtecan and rilvegostomig for non-small cell lung cancer, highlighting ongoing research in respiratory therapies. The study, titled “TROPION-Lung10,” focuses on patients with locally advanced or metastatic nonsquamous non-small cell lung cancer.
Numerous researchers have disclosed financial ties to both Sanofi and Regeneron, as well as to competing pharmaceutical companies. These relationships include research grants, consulting fees, and stock ownership, as detailed in disclosures accompanying recent publications and presentations. For example, S.J.N. Has received grant and/or research support from AstraZeneca, NewAmsterdam Pharma, Amgen, and Sanofi-Regeneron, among others. A.M.N. Has received personal fees for consulting from Sanofi and Regeneron. B.A.F. Has received research grants and consulting fees from Sanofi. M.D., J.J.P.K., E.W., A.L.N., D.K., A.H. And M.H.D. Are employees of NewAmsterdam Pharma and hold stocks or options.