INTRODUCTION: Non-cystic-fibrosis bronchiectasis (NCFB) is an airway disorder with a growing world-wide prevalence that affects predominantly older and female individuals and is associated with high symptom burden and significant healthcare expenditure. Brensocatib is a novel orally bioavailable, selective, and reversible dipeptidyl peptidase 1 (DPP1) inhibitor that leads to a sustained inhibition of neutrophil serine protease activity in both whole blood and sputum. AREAS COVERED: This drug profile summarizes the role of inflammation in the pathophysiology of bronchiectasis. The mechanism of action of brensocatib in reducing neutrophil-related inflammation is described. We then summarize existing efficacy and safety data from Phase 2 and Phase 3 studies of brensocatib in patients with bronchiectasis, in which the rate of exacerbation was the primary endpoint. Finally, we summarize the current marketplace for brensocatib, including the unmet for effective therapies for bronchiectasis, and the status of other potential treatments undergoing clinical trials. EXPERT OPINION: Brensocatib is the first-in-class DPP1 inhibitor that shows promise as a treatment for patients with bronchiectasis.