Now available as a drug plan benefit in Saskatchewan, (Pr)ONBREZ* BREEZHALER*, a once-daily bronchodilator for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
DORVAL, QC, July 10, 2013 /CNW/ - Saskatchewan patients suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) that are unresponsive to short-acting beta agonists or short-acting anticholinergic bronchodilators, now have access to ONBREZ* BREEZHALER* (indacaterol maleate) 75 mcg with its Exception Drug Status (EDS) listing on the Saskatchewan Formulary. ONBREZ* BREEZHALER* is available in pharmacies province wide.
ONBREZ* BREEZHALER* is a long-acting β2-agonist (LABA) indicated for long-term maintenance bronchodilator treatment of airflow obstruction in patients with COPD, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. As an inhaled, steroid-free COPD treatment, ONBREZ* BREEZHALER* is not indicated for the relief of acute deterioration of COPD, nor to treat asthma1.
"We are pleased that the Saskatchewan Drug Plan has recognized the therapeutic value of ONBREZ* BREEZHALER*, leading to its inclusion on the Saskatchewan Formulary. Other provinces have also provided access to this treatment for Canadians with COPD," said Dr. Riad Sherif B., President of Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc.
About COPD
COPD is a chronic, progressive respiratory condition characterized by gradual airway obstruction, shortness of breath, cough and sputum production. 2009-2010 estimates show that 4% of Canadians are affected. Cigarette smoking is the principal cause, accounting for 80% of COPD deaths.2
About Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc.
Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc., a leader in the healthcare field, is committed to the discovery, development and marketing of innovative products to improve the well-being of all Canadians. In 2012, the company invested close to $100 million in research and development in Canada. Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc. employs more than 600 people in Canada. For further information, please consult www.novartis.ca.
*ONBREZ and BREEZHALER are registered trademarks.
References
1 ONBREZ* BREEZHALER* Product Monograph, October 24, 2012.
2 PHAC. Fast facts about Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) 2011. Available from: www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/cd-mc/publications/copd-mpoc/ff-rr-2011-eng.php. Accessed March 15, 2013.
SOURCE: Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc.
![](http://rt.newswire.ca/rt.gif?NewsItemId=C6607&Transmission_Id=201307101424CANADANWCANADAPR_C6607&DateId=20130710)
Novartis - Media Relations
Andrea Gilpin
Director, Corporate Communications
Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc.
+1-514-633-7873
[email protected]
Share this article