Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 08:30 - 19:00 | Sat 09:00 - 16:00 (GMT)
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.
12 November 2019
Immerse yourself in the food, parades and spirit of America's favourite holiday, across five unique locations.
[more...]
04 November 2019
Head to the Southern Hemisphere for sun, sea and spectacles of the wild kind.
As the nights draw in, we're turning our thoughts to the warmer climes of the Southern Hemisphere and treks in Patagonia that will put a spring in your step...
Escape the UK's shorter autumn days and head to the Southern Hemisphere for sun and sporting fun.
21 October 2019
Struggling for holiday inspiration? Let us inspire you with our list of book-themed breaks.
Check out our top recommendations to make the most of your time in Frankfurt, on the River Maine.
30 October 2019
What quirky customs await you on your travels this Halloween?
Look past the petrifying and discover a side to the Romanian region you never knew...
14 October 2019
Bucharest is the jewel of the Balkans crown - explore the city to find a host of hidden gems.
At the crossroads of Central and Southeast Europe lies a country with a story to tell. Check out these must-see sites in Croatia to learn more.
07 October 2019
With Halloween on the horizon we look for destinations across the globe with a decidedly mysterious appeal...
What should you eat in Croatia? Good question. Unrumble that tummy with our rundown of our favourite Croat cuisine.