German Remedies launches third-generation inhaler for asthamatics

Ahmedabad: German Remedies, a part of the Zydus Cadila Group has launched Novolizer, a device for Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Meda Pharma of Sweden has provided the technology for the device, along with exclusive rights to manufacture and market Novolizer in India. Novolizer is a third-generation refillable, breath activated multiple dose dry powder inhaler device and can be used by patients suffering from Asthma and COPD.

Asthma is a chronic, debilitating respiratory condition with sudden, unpredictable and potentially life-threatening effects. It is estimated that there are more than 20 million asthmatics in India. The treatment of Asthma requires constant vigilance and the active involvement of patients to monitor, anticipate and promptly respond to the onset of asthmatic attacks.

COPD is a lung disease that is progressive and not fully reversible. It obstructs the airways and makes breathing difficult. Patients with COPD suffer from frequent cough, mucus production and shortness of breath which makes even walking a short distance, a difficult task.

In treating Asthma and COPD, patient compliance and availing the right dose at the right time can be crucial. Several clinical studies have revealed limitations in the development of inhalation devices, which prevent almost half of all asthma patients from inhaling correctly. This leads to poor asthma control despite effective substances being available to treat asthma.

An ideal inhaler effectively delivers the drug that a patient requires through the airways, which are usually narrowed in an asthmatic condition. It also helps in the exact dose being deposited in the lungs irrespective of the inhalation technique.

Novolizer fulfills all the elements of an ideal inhaler and is currently the only third-generation inhaler available across the world. It has a patient-friendly, multiple feedback mechanism, which can guide the user through the correct inhalation process. In addition, Novolizer also has an intelligent dose counter, which resets only after correct inhalation and helps monitor patient compliance. Unlike the currently available multiple dose, dry powder inhalers which cannot be refilled, Novolizer can be refilled by replacing the cartridges.

German Remedies currently markets Formonide, Forair, Combimist, etc. in the respiratory segment and is ranked second in the participated market.