Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

Pharmaceuticals
February 17, 2014

Meptin Swinghaler, Easy-to-inhale Bronchodilator for COPD and Asthma Patients, Approved in Japan

  • Meptin is a short-acting beta agonist with rapid onset of pharmacological effect, widely used for asthma attacks. Newly approved Meptin Swinghaler is a smaller device than the inhaler currently marketed by Otsuka, making inhalation easier.
  • In Japan, there are an estimated 1.05 million asthma patients, including a significant elderly patient population. By 2011, the number of deaths related to asthma had fallen to approximately 2,000. Short-acting beta agonists in dry-powder-inhaler form, in an easy-to-use device for both pediatric and elderly patients, are crucial features of bronchodilators in order to save patients who experience severe asthma attacks.
  • Meptin was created by Otsuka and launched in 1980, indicated for bronchial asthma, chronic bronchitis, and pulmonary emphysema. It has been developed into seven dosage forms adapted to various patients needs, and is marketed in twelve countries and regions. Newly approved Meptin Swinghaler is the twelfth product under the Meptin brand, and is an improved form of the dry powder inhaler launched in 2005.

Tokyo, Japan, February 17, 2013 - Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. received regulatory approval on February 14 in Japan for Meptin Swinghaler (procaterol hydrochloride hydrate) 10μg, 100 puffs.