Two inhalation combination products have been launched in Japan within a day of each other. Skyepharma has announced that its Japanese partner Kyorin launched a 56-inhalation version of the Flutiform fluticasone/formoterol MDI, and Sosei has announced that Novartis Pharma KK launched Ultibro glycopyrronium/indacaterol inhalation capsules for the treatment of COPD.
According to Skyepharma, the Japanese launch of Flutiform will generate “high-mid single digit royalties on net sales” for the company. The 120-inhalation version of the product will be launched 12 months after the 56-inhalation version due to National Health Insurance reimbursement rules.
Kyorin President Mitsutomo Miyashita said, “Kyorin is delighted to launch Flutiform, enabling us to provide a new treatment option to bronchial asthma patients. By enhancing our respiratory product portfolio with this new combination, Kyorin will continue to contribute to the improved treatment and quality of life of more asthma patients in Japan.”
Ultibro inhalation capsules were approved in Japan in September 2013 for use with the Breezhaler DPI. Novartis K.K. announced the launch of the product in Japan on November 20.
Read the Skyepharma press release.
Read the Sosei press release.
