Ranbaxy launches Avessa for asthma treatment

Ranbaxy Laboratories today announced the launch of its branded product, Avessa (Formoterol + Fluticasone) inhalation capsules in India, for the treatment of asthma.

According to a release issued by the company to the BSE today, the unique combination has been launched for the first time in the world - combining the fastest-acting Long Acting Beta 2 Formoterol and the most potent inhaled corticosteroid Fluticasone.

"Avessa is available as Rheocaps Avessa 100 mcg, Avessa 250 mcg and Avessa 500 mcg depending on the severity of asthma patients. The product is to be used only with the Rheohaler, which is the world's first capsule-based, multidose dry powder inhaler," the release added.

Sanjeev I Dani, regional director (India & Middle East) of Ranbaxy, said: "We are delighted to launch the world's first unique combination product Avessa in India, which reinforces our strong commitment to develop and introduce convenient solutions for asthmatic patients. The introduction of a series of new products in the field of asthma underscores our commitment to the physicians and patients in this segment."

Earlier during the year, the company had launched Osonide (Ciclesonide) Inhaler, a once-a-day product in the segment. In May this year, the company entered into an in-licensing agreement for the Indian domestic market with the Netherlands-based Eurodrug Laboratories for an asthma product Doxophylline sold under the brand name Synasma.