Affordable treatment options for Australian patients with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are set to expand with GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) and Theravance, Inc. announcing the listing of Breo Ellipta on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) from 1st December 2014. 

Breo Ellipta is a once-daily combination treatment of an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) and a long-acting bronchodilator administered using the new Ellipta dry powder inhaler (DPI).1 

Breo Ellipta is registered for the treatment of moderate to severe asthma in patients aged 12 years and older. Breo Ellipta is listed on the PBS for patients who have previously had frequent episodes of asthma while receive treatment with oral corticosteroids or optimal doses of inhaled corticosteroid. 

Breo Ellipta is also listed on the PBS for the symptomatic treatment of COPD where the lung function (FEV1) is less than 50% predicted normal and there is a history of repeated exacerbations (“flare ups”) with significant symptoms despite regular bronchodilator therapy. 

Respiratory specialist and senior scientist Professor Phil Bardin said he welcomed the availability of new options in asthma management.

For more details, go to: http://www.gsk.com.au/media-centre_detail.aspx?view=794