Japan approves Vectura's inhaler capsules

Shares of Cambridge-based Vectura rose after it confirmed the Japanese government has approved its Seebri inhalation capsules used in inhaler devices.

The treatment, which will be available to patients and physicians in Japan by year-end, will trigger a £2.5m milestone payment for Vectura from its partner Novartis.

"The Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) has approved Seebri (glycopyrronium bromide) Inhalation Capsules 50 mcg administered through the Breezhaler device, as a once-daily, long-term, inhaled maintenance bronchodilator treatment for the relief of various symptoms due to airway obstructive disease in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (chronic bronchitis and emphysema)," said Vectura in a company statement.

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It is the first approval for glycopyrronium bromide (Seebri) in COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), with further approval expected in the EU in 2012, the group explained.

Vectura Chief Executive Dr Chris Blackwell commented: "The approval of Seebri Inhalation Capsules in Japan is an important event for Vectura, triggering a $2.5m milestone and further validation of our late stage respiratory platform."

"Seebri Inhalation Capsules provides doctors and patients with a much needed, once-daily, treatment option for COPD, a condition that can lead to death and is increasing in prevalence in Japan and worldwide."

CJ