AstraZeneca India has received Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) approval to market its inhalation aerosol, a triple combination of budesonide (160 mcg), glycopyrrolate (9 mcg), and formoterol fumarate (4.8 mcg). The pressurised metered dose inhaler is recommended for the treatment and maintenance of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

COPD is the second leading cause of death in India, accounting for more than 50% of chronic respiratory diseases. It is the third leading cause of death worldwide. 

In comparison to currently available dual therapies, this triple combination therapy is proven to considerably lower the rate of moderate to severe exacerbations, mortality rates, and increase lung function. The inhalation aerosol is highly recommended for all patients with a history of multiple exacerbations.

Dr Anil Kukreja, Vice-President, Medical Affairs and Regulatory, AstraZeneca India said, “Preventing exacerbations is central to the management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.  The triple combination therapy has clinically demonstrated a significant reduction in the rate of moderate or severe exacerbations as compared with other available dual therapies. The indication improves lung function, helps with COPD symptoms and prevents flare-ups. We are also looking at the possibility of extending benefit towards the complete spectrum of respiratory disorders like chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or both.”

Dr Sanjeev Panchal, Country President & Manging Director, AstraZeneca India, said, “COPD is probably an underprioritised disease around the world. In India, government has already demonstrated its intent to manage COPD better by including it in National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS)."