Global pharma major, Lupin Limited (Lupin), today announced that its UK subsidiary, Lupin Healthcare (UK) Limited has received approval from the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) to market Luforbec (beclometasone dipropionate/formoterol fumarate dihydrate) 100/6 µg pressurized metered dose inhaler (pMDI), the first branded generic of Fostair (beclometasone dipropionate/formoterol fumarate dihydrate) 100/6 µg pMDI, which has the potential to offer significant cost savings for the NHS.

Luforbec 100/6 µg pMDI is indicated for regular treatment of asthma and for the symptomatic treatment of patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (FEV1 <50% predicted normal*).

In the twelve months to February 2021, the NHS spent over £179 million on Fostair 100/6 µg pMDI and the availability of Luforbec 100/6 µg pMDI offers significant savings potential for the NHS, upon launch.

“We are truly delighted to receive the first marketing authorization for generic Fostair 100/6 µg pMDI in the UK. This is an important milestone for our respiratory franchise as we expand our product offering across the globe,” said Vinita Gupta, CEO, Lupin Limited. “At Lupin, we remain committed to serving patients suffering from respiratory diseases with quality and cost-effective treatment.”

“The approval of Luforbec 100/6 µg pMDI is a pivotal milestone for the UK and a welcome step for Lupin as we draw on our strong expertise in inhalation research and development and expand our respiratory portfolio. We are proud to support healthcare providers and patients by continuing to invest in specialized treatments for chronic diseases,” said Thierry Volle, President – EMEA, Lupin Limited.

Respiratory diseases affect one in five people. It is the third biggest cause of death in the UK and is a clinical priority for the NHS. In the UK, around 5.4 million people are currently receiving treatment for asthma, which is equivalent to one in every 12 adults. An estimated 1.2 million people are also living with COPD and this number is only set to increase.  Asthma and COPD place a heavy cost burden on the NHS, estimated at £3 billion and £1.9 billion per year, respectively.