Novartis receives FDA approval for COPD drug

SILVER SPRING, Md. — The Food and Drug Administration has approved a drug made by Novartis for treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, the FDA said Friday.

The FDA approved Arcapta Neohaler (indacaterol inhalation powder) for long-term, once-daily maintenance of bronchodilator treatment of airflow obstruction in people with COPD, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

COPD, which often results from cigarette smoking, is the fourth-leading cause of death in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Arcapta Neohaler is marketed by Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp., an East Hanover, N.J.-based subsidiary of the Swiss drug maker.