Pfizer has introduced Novartis’ Ultibro Breezhaler (indacaterol/glycopyrronium bromide) in the UK, to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
A once-daily dual bronchodilator has been launched to coincide with the British Thoracic Society (BTS) winter meeting, said Pfizer.
Ultibro Breezhaler is the latest dual bronchodilator therapy to be made available for use by healthcare professionals across the UK, under the terms of an exclusive UK promotional agreement signed between Pfizer and Novartis in September 2014.
According to Pfizer, data shows that Ultibro significantly improved lung function compared against current standard treatments and patients receiving it also reported significant improvements in outcomes including breathlessness and use of rescue medication compared to open-label tiotropium 18mcg and salmeterol/fluticasone.
Somerset-based GP Dr Steve Holmes said: "The launch of Ultibro Breezhaler is welcome news for people with COPD and clinicians in the UK as it is an effective new treatment option to help to relieve patients’ symptoms.
"COPD is a common chronic condition that requires personalised treatment for optimal disease management and so it’s essential to have a number of choices available for healthcare providers and our patients."