GlaxoSmithKline launches Relvar Ellipta in UK

GlaxoSmithKline and Theravance have announced the UK launch of a new once-daily inhaler treatment for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Relvar Ellipta is the first combination inhaler with a once-daily management dose for asthma and COPD. Its active ingredients include the steroid fluticasone and long-acting beta agonist vilanterol.

Manufactured in the UK, the therapy received European regulatory approval in November 2013 after demonstrating its safety and efficacy in a total of ten clinical studies in 7,783 patients with COPD and 16 trials in 9,326 patients with asthma.

It is licensed for the regular treatment of uncontrolled asthma in patients aged 12 years and over and for COPD patients experiencing exacerbations despite regular bronchodilation.

Dr Dominick Shaw, associate clinical professor and honorary consultant in respiratory medicine at Nottingham Respiratory Research Unit, said: "The release of Relvar Ellipta is a welcome addition in the fight against these chronic lung diseases."