Now available in Saskatchewan, (Pr)SEEBRI* BREEZHALER*, a long-term once-daily maintenance treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
DORVAL, QC, Sept. 23, 2013 /CNW/ - People in Saskatchewan suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) now have access to SEEBRI* BREEZHALER* (glycopyrronium bromide) 50 mcg with its listing as an Exception Drug Status benefit on the Saskatchewan Drug Plan Formulary. SEEBRI* BREEZHALER* is available in pharmacies province wide.
SEEBRI* BREEZHALER* is a long-acting anticholinergic (LAAC) indicated for long-term, once-daily maintenance bronchodilator treatment in patients with COPD, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. As an inhaled, steroid-free COPD treatment, SEEBRI* BREEZHALER* is not indicated for the relief of acute deterioration of COPD.1
"We are pleased to see that the Government of Saskatchewan is making this treatment option available to residents living with COPD," said Kyle Steiger, Vice President, Primary Care, Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc. "Saskatchewan is now one of several provinces which have made SEEBRI* BREEZHALER* available through provincial drug plans to help physicians and patients manage this chronic lung disease. We now look forward to the other remaining provinces reimbursing SEEBRI* BREEZHALER* in the very near future."
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.
*SEEBRI and BREEZHALER are registered trademarks.
References
1 SEEBRI* BREEZHALER* Product Monograph, October 12, 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.
For further information:
Novartis - Media Relations
Andrea Gilpin
Director, Corporate Communications
Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc.
+1-514-633-7873
[email protected]
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