EU Approval for GSK’s Nucala in COPD Boosts Monday Stock Focus
On February 8, 2026, GSK received approval from the European Commission for its drug Nucala (mepolizumab) to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in adults. This approval is significant as it allows for broader use of Nucala in patients who have uncontrolled COPD and elevated blood eosinophils, despite existing treatments.
Market Response and Stock Performance
Following this announcement, GSK’s stock experienced a rise. The company’s shares closed at 2,198 pence on Friday, reflecting an increase of 0.8%. Over the past week, GSK’s stock has climbed approximately 17%, and it has surged nearly 49% in the past year. This brings the company’s total valuation close to £88 billion.
Investors and Insider Activity
- GSK Chairman Jonathan Symonds purchased 2,500 shares at £21.14 per share on February 5, totaling £52,850.
- Market analysts, including JP Morgan’s Zain Ebrahim, maintain a “Sell” rating on GSK, with a target price of 1,700 pence.
Traders are particularly interested in GSK’s upcoming dividend dates. The company is set to go ex-dividend on February 19, with a record date of February 20. Payments are scheduled for April 9.
Clinical Trial Results and Implications
The expansion of Nucala’s indication is based on results from the MATINEE phase 3 trial. This trial demonstrated significant benefits for patients, as Nucala decreased the yearly rate of moderate or severe flare-ups by a rate ratio of 0.79 compared to placebo. Additionally, it reduced flare-ups leading to emergency room visits or hospitalizations, shown by a rate ratio of 0.65.
Kaivan Khavandi, GSK’s global head of Respiratory, Immunology & Inflammation R&D, emphasized that this is the first time adults with uncontrolled COPD will have access to a monthly biologic treatment. However, Susanna Palkonen from the European Federation of Allergy and Airways Diseases Patients’ Associations highlighted the immense burden faced by patients with this condition.
Future Outlook
As trading resumes, market participants will look for indications of how quickly Nucala can gain prescriptions post-approval. The EU decision may either stimulate further momentum for GSK’s stock or may be perceived as just another step in a lengthy reimbursement process across different countries. The adoption of biologic treatments for COPD often faces scrutiny from payers, particularly if traditional inhaler therapies continue to be preferred by physicians.
