Teva launches DuoResp Spiromax inhaler in UK

Teva has announced the UK launch of its new DuoResp Spiromax inhaler, intended for adult patients with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

The budesonide/formoterol therapy is intended for patients aged 18 or over for whom a combination of an inhaled corticosteroid and long-acting beta-2 adrenoceptor agonist is considered appropriate. 

It addresses a number of key healthcare needs, as asthma and COPD affect an estimated 9.1 million people between them in the UK.

Two phase IIIb trials involving British patients have been initiated to compare the performance of this product to an alternative. Results from these studies will emerge at the end of this year or in early 2015.

Dr Kevin Gruffydd-Jones, GP principal at the Box Surgery in Wiltshire, said: "The intuitive Spiromax inhaler device aids simpler inhaler technique. This in turn has the potential to improve asthma and COPD management and control."

This comes after the firm launched generic eplerenone tablets last month for treating patients who have suffered a heart attack.