Hikma Pharmaceuticals PLC, a multinational pharmaceutical company, has introduced the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved generic version of Advair Diskus (Fluticasone Propionate and Salmeterol Inhalation Powder, USP), 100mcg/50mcg and 250mcg/50mcg doses in the US, it was reported on Thursday.

The company has collaborated with UK-based Vectura Group to produce the proprietary dry powder inhaler and formulation technology that is prescribed for patients with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). According to IQVIA, US sales of Fluticasone Propionate and Salmeterol Inhalation Powder USP, 100mcg/50mcg and 250mcg/50mcg, were approximately USD2bn in the 12 months ending September 2020.

Siggi Olafsson, Hikma chief executive officer, said 'The approval of our generic version of Advair Diskus marks an important milestone in our strategy to develop more complex respiratory products. Through the unwavering dedication of our employees and close collaboration with the Vectura team, we have developed a high quality and substitutable generic product for Advair Diskus that will improve availability of this critical medicine. We are very pleased to have now launched this product and will leverage the investments we have made and the experience we have gained through this process to develop a range of respiratory and other complex treatment options for patients and healthcare providers, helping us to continue to put better health, within reach, every day.'