Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 09:00 - 17:30 | Sat 09:00 - 16:00 (GMT)
Or call 0345 90 80 161
10 January 2014 09:27
The first once-daily asthma inhaler has been granted approval for use in Britain
The first ever once-a-day asthma inhaler has been approved for use in Britain.
Relvar Ellipta is the name of the new drug, which uniquely combines a steroid dose to reduce inflammation with a new type of long-acting beta2 agonist to open the airways.
Anyone with asthma travel insurance who is planning to book a dream holiday in 2014 may be hopeful that the new medicine could represent a more convenient and effective way to keep their condition under control.
Some people with asthma will even be able to dispense with their blue inhaler, although others will need to continue to also carry one for when they require immediate relief.
Relvar Ellipta has been approved by the European Commission for prescribing by GPs and asthma specialists to adults and adolescents aged 12 and over, though the NHS drug watchdog NICE is yet to evaluate its cost effectiveness.
The new inhaler can also be used by thousands of people living with the lung disease COPD.
Before granting approval, the European Medicines Agency reviewed results from 10 clinical studies involving 7,783 patients with COPD and 16 trials in 9,326 patients with asthma.
Research has revealed that patients use the grey palm-sized device correctly from the outset and up to six weeks later.
The new treatment offers 24-hour help to asthmatics, many of whom are currently failing to keep the condition under control.
Asthma is an inflammatory disease that constricts the airways and the resulting attacks of breathlessness can be fatal.
More than five million Britons are affected by the condition and many of them experience moderate to severe problems.
Up to three out of four of these patients with moderate to severe problems have "uncontrolled" symptoms despite using one inhaler designed to combat an attack and a second inhaler to keep the airways open.
17 May 2019
What makes the Monaco Grand Prix so special? From a royal guestlist to a challenging circuit, we take a look at why the Monte Carlo Formula 1 race is so prestigious...
[more...]
15 May 2019
Get inspired for a summer of music, travel and adventure with our guide to some of the best music festivals around Europe.
07 May 2019
Thinking of visiting Spain? There are some excellent reasons to explore the country this spring and summer, from football finals to eating snails - so don't miss out!
Want to learn a new language without the hassle of going to classes? Check out our guide to the best free apps on the market and get yourself holiday-ready in no time.
03 May 2019
Why are there two bank holidays in May? Why do we celebrate May Day? These questions and more are answered in our look at the origins of the May bank holidays...
30 April 2019
Experience the magic of Matera! The 2019 European Capital of Culture, Southern Italy's famous ancient city of caves is the perfect place for a weekend away.
Get inspired for a last-minute getaway this bank holiday weekend! We explore five alternative European city break destinations perfect for a weekend away.
18 April 2019
How much do you know about Spain? Read up on some fascinating facts about Spain and learn more about magical mice, liquid gold and big pay-outs.
16 April 2019
Keen to see first-hand who gets crowned champions of Europe? Europe's biggest football match takes place in Madrid: here's your guide to everything you need to know.
Going away with your children? Beat the stress of travelling with your family with these great travel tips. Here's what you need to know if you're travelling with kids this Easter.
Heading to Madrid? Here's our guide to six must-see places you should visit in the Spanish capital, from food markets to fine art and plenty in between.
10 April 2019
Experience the magic of Madrid's Fiesta de San Isidro 2019! Discover where to stay, what to eat and what to see as you explore one of Spain's greatest festivals.