GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) Filed To Get U.S. Approval For Triple Lung Drug

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GlaxoSmithKline, tha largest drugmaker in Britain, announced on Monday that the company as filed its new three-in-one inhaled lung drug for U.S. approval.

The triple inhaler is being developed with Innoviva, and combines fluticasone, umeclidinium and vilanterol.

If successful, the company could have the drug hit the market before its rivals in 2017. Both AstraZeneca and Novartis have also developed “closed triple” therapies, that offer a single inhaler for patients who suffer from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

The “closed triple” term is an idea that would use three different mechanisms of action to help patients’ airways open. Currently there are just two used.

According to outgoing Chief Executive Andrew Witty, it could be an “absolute clincher” for its respiratory business.

GlaxoSmithKline’s new once-daily drug will be filed in the European Union in the coming weeks, with submissions in other countries beginning in 2017.

Disclaimer: We have no position in GlaxoSmithKline plc (ADR) (NYSE: GSK) and have not been compensated for this article.