Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals has launched propellant-free inhaler, Combivent Respimat, as prescribed drug, in the US, to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
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By using a slow-moving mist, Combivent Respimat can deliver the same active ingredients as Combivent inhalation aerosol, which is delivered in a metered dose inhaler, combivent MDI.
Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals Respiratory Clinical Development and Medical Affairs vice president Tunde Otulana said,"COMBIVENT RESPIMAT is a testament to our company’s commitment to developing advancements for people living with respiratory disease."
Combivent Respimat was developed in response to the Montreal Protocol, an international treaty requiring the phase-out of inhalers that use chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) as propellants, such as Combivent MDI.
University of Kentucky pulmonary division and critical care and sleep medicine professor Dennis Doherty said Combivent Respimat includes a new dosing indicator and locking mechanism to inform patients that all of the medication has been used.
"To support patients during this transition period, Boehringer Ingelheim has developed training tools and educational resources to ensure that both healthcare professionals and patients are properly trained and understand how to use this new type of inhaler," Doherty added.