Pfizer launches Novartis’ Ultibro Breezhaler in the UK

Pfizer has announced the UK launch of Ultibro Breezhaler, a once-daily dual bronchodilator for the maintenance treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

The drug, originally developed by Novartis, has been introduced to coincide with the British Thoracic Society winter meeting. It has been launched by Pfizer under the terms of an exclusive UK promotional agreement signed between the companies in September 2014.

Ultibro Breezhaler has been shown to significantly improve lung function compared to current standard treatments, as well as reducing breathlessness and the use of rescue medication compared to existing therapies.

Its launch in December is timely, as this is a particularly dangerous month for people with COPD due to the cold weather causing a higher risk of exacerbations.

Dr Steve Holmes, a Somerset-based GP with a specialist interest in respiratory disease, 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."

Novartis and Pfizer's partnership also includes promotional rights to Seebri Breezhaler, another COPD drug launched in November 2012.