Major new asthma inhaler announcement in 'world's first' for patients

Major new asthma inhaler announcement in 'world's first' for patients The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) shared the announcement today A major new inhaler announcement has been made today, Tuesday, July 21, for asthma patients. In the UK, more than seven million people have been diagnosed with asthma. It is one of the most common long-term health conditions in the country. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has now confirmed that it has given the green light to new versions of Clenil Modulite (beclometasone) inhalers. The new metered-dose inhaler is the first in the world to use a more environmentally friendly propellant. It means patients can continue using their usual asthma medication while reducing the carbon footprint of their inhalers by up to 90%. New versions of the Clenil Modulite 100 microgram and 200 microgram inhalers will contain beclometasone dipropionate for the treatment of asthma in adults and children. The government has announced that this approval is the first in the world for pressurised metered-dose inhalers (pMDI) that use the new propellant HFA-152a. This propellant isn't a medicine itself, but it helps to deliver the inhaled medication. These updated versions are set to be released in the UK in 2026. Until then, patients can still access the current Clenil Modulite inhalers. Julian Beach, MHRA Executive Director of Healthcare Quality and Access, said: "Keeping patients safe and enabling their access to high-quality, safe and effective medicines are key priorities for us. Asthma inhalers play a vital role in helping millions of patients manage their condition and maintain their quality of life. "This approval marks the world’s first authorisation of an inhaler using the next-generation propellant HFA-152a. It demonstrates how innovation can support both patient care and environmental sustainability while maintaining the high standards of quality, safety and effectiveness patients expect. As with all medicines, we will continue to monitor its safety and effectiveness closely." The medication is given through a pressurised metered-dose inhaler and is used consistently to help avoid asthma symptoms. The main component, beclometasone dipropionate, is a corticosteroid that decreases inflammation in the airways, which helps to prevent asthma symptoms and flare-ups. There have been no alterations to the active ingredient, suggested dosages, or therapeutic uses. The MHRA's approval is supported by evidence showing that the new formulations work similarly to products already authorised, while ensuring the same level of quality, safety, and clinical benefits. The usual side effects of beclometasone inhalers include oral thrush, hoarseness, and throat irritation. You can find a complete list of side effects for the latest version of the product in the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) or the Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC), which will be revised once the medicine is released. A statement on Gov.uk reads: "As with any medicine, the MHRA will keep the safety and effectiveness of beclometasone dipropionate under close review. Anyone who suspects they are experiencing a side effect should speak to their doctor, pharmacist or nurse and report it directly through the Yellow Card scheme at or via the MHRA Yellow Card app." Asthma is a widespread long-term condition that impacts the airways in the lungs. Common symptoms include wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing.