Cipla launches extra-fine particle HFA inhaler for adults

Cipla Limited has launched Niveoli, India’s first extra-fine particle beclomethasone-formoterol combination hydrofluoroalkane (HFA) inhaler for adults, targeting drug delivery to the small airways.

Niveoli is the latest offering by Cipla in respiratory inhalation therapy to cure with obstructive airway diseases (OAD) such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD). Asthma and COPD are lung conditions that affect the ability to breathe. The drug's novelty and strength lies in HFA propelled delivery of extra-fine particles of beclomethasone, an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) and formoterol, a fast-onset long acting beta agonist (LABA) to the small airways.

As per the extensive medical research, it has been found that small airway disease has a significant role in asthma and COPD and is prevalent in 50-60 per cent of asthma patients. Also, it is a common feature of COPD and gets worse with increasing severity of the condition.

Cipla is well-known for innovating combination formulations and drug device combinations in the respiratory therapy. Till now, it has introduced many such products like the transparent dry powder inhaler, the static-free spacer with valve mechanism, the mask-spacer combination for children or novel breath-actuated inhaler with dose counter called Synchrobreathe.

The company plans to foray into emerging markets of Brazil and China. The market for respiratory products in China is too extensive. India and the US have contributed significantly to the company's revenue over the years.

On Friday, the stock of Cipla opened 1 per cent higher at Rs. 550 from its previous close of Rs 544.35.