FDA approves COPD treatment

RIDGEFIELD, Conn. The Food and Drug Administration has approved an inhaler for reducing the risks of exacerbations associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder.

Pfizer and Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals announced the FDA’s approval of Spiriva HandiHaler (tiotropium bromide). The inhaler is already approved as a maintenance treatment for COPD, which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

“Exacerbations of COPD are serious events that can negatively impact the lives of patients,” University of California Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine professor emeritus Donald Tashkin said. “People with COPD now have a once-daily treatment option that not only helps them manage the debilitating symptoms of COPD, but also can help them reduce the chance of an exacerbation.”