GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) and Theravance, Inc. have welcomed news that Anoro Ellipta (umeclidinium/vilanterol) will be reimbursed via the Australian Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) as a long-term once-daily, maintenance bronchodilator treatment to relieve symptoms in adult patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) which is also known as chronic bronchitis, “smoker’s cough” or emphysema. 

The reimbursement will be effective from December 1st 2014. 

Anoro is a once-daily combination treatment comprising two bronchodilators, umeclidinium (UMEC), a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA), and vilanterol (VI), a long-acting beta2 agonist (LABA), in a single inhaler, the Ellipta. 

Senior respiratory physician and clinical researcher Professor Peter Frith from Repatriation General Hospital said he welcomed the improved access to new treatments that results from PBS reimbursement. 

“I certainly welcome better access to effective treatment options in COPD that can alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. Combined drugs of this nature promise to add significantly to patient well-being,” said Professor Frith.

For more details, go to: http://www.gsk.com.au/media-centre_detail.aspx?view=792