Almirall receives EU approval for new COPD therapy

Almirall has been granted European Commission approval for Eklira/Bretaris Genuair, a maintenance bronchodilator treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

The drug has been shown in clinical trials to deliver significant and sustained bronchodilation from the first dose, while also improving symptom control and enhancing patients' quality of life.

Eklira/Bretaris Genuair was developed by Almirall's research and development division, with the company set to ally with Menarini to commercialise the product across Europe.

It will deliver a new treatment option to sufferers of COPD, which is one of Europe's leading causes of death and is characterised by symptoms such as shortness of breath and chronic coughs.

Eduardo Sanchiz, chief executive officer at Almirall, said: "We are convinced from our large set of scientific data that aclidinium will help patients in Europe to reduce COPD symptoms and improve their quality of life."

Almirall has announced that it will also be partnering with contract research organisation Quintiles on the UK launch of the drug.