The UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has approved Chiesi's carbon-minimal pressurised metered-dose inhalers (pMDIs) for Clenil Modulite (beclometasone) (100 mcg and 200 mcg).
The new pMDIs use HFA-152, a next-generation, non-PFAS propellant with a low global warming potential (GWP). The propellant is manufactured by Orbia Fluor & Energy Materials in Runcorn, UK.
The UK is now the first country to approve these products.
pMDIs are the most widely prescribed type of inhaler device in the UK, accounting for around 70% of the 60 million devices prescribed each year.
They are responsible for nearly three per cent of the NHS's total carbon footprint.
The switch to the new propellant could cut inhaler carbon emissions by up to 90%, while maintaining the same therapeutic efficacy and tolerability for patients.
Dave Singh, Professor of Clinical Pharmacology and Respiratory Medicine, University of Manchester, said: "This milestone represents a significant step forward in sustainable respiratory care."
Studies have demonstrated the therapeutic equivalence and tolerability of beclometasone formulated with HFA-152a, versus the existing propellant, HFA-134a, so patients can maintain access to the treatment that works for them while the carbon footprint of these pMDIs is addressed in the background.
Ralph Blom, General Manager, Chiesi UK and Ireland, added: "Beclometasone (100 mcg and 200 mcg) are the first in Chiesi's pMDI portfolio to transition to a low-GWP propellant – a significant milestone as we evolve our respiratory portfolio and advance towards our Net Zero by 2035 goal."
Our focus is on delivering innovation that supports both patients and the planet, reducing environmental impact and supporting NHS decarbonisation goals, while preserving choice, access and flexibility in treatment.
Chiesi added in its statement that it is aiming to be the first pharma company to achieve Net Zero greenhouse gas emissions across its entire value chain by 2035, calling the transition to next-generation propellants "one of the most impactful actions" in its Net Zero roadmap.
