Biopharmaceutical company GSK plc (LSE/NYSE: GSK) on Wednesday reported positive Phase III results for its next-generation low-carbon version of the Ventolin (salbutamol) metered dose inhaler (MDI), confirming therapeutic equivalence and a comparable safety profile to the current formulation.

The new Ventolin MDI uses an innovative low-carbon propellant, HFA-152a, which has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 92% per inhaler compared with the existing HFA-134a propellant. Regulatory submissions are planned, with commercial launch expected from 2026.

With around 300 million salbutamol MDIs sold globally each year, GSK's current Ventolin accounts for roughly 45% of the company's total carbon footprint. The next-generation version marks a key step toward GSK's goal of reducing its environmental impact while maintaining effective respiratory treatment options for patients with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

GSK has integrated advanced manufacturing technologies to support the transition to this more sustainable inhaler. The development aligns with the company's broader sustainability and innovation strategy, combining science and technology to address both health and environmental challenges.