World-first low-carbon pMDI approved in UK

The first pressurised metered-dose inhaler (pMDI) to use a next-generation propellant to lower carbon emissions has been approved for use in the UK, a world first.

Chiesi’s Clenil Modulite (beclometasone) (100 mcg and 200 mcg) inhalers are the first pMDIs to use HFA-152a, a next-generation, non-PFAS propellant with a low global warming potential (GWP).

pMDIs are the most most widely prescribed inhaler devices in the UK, accounting for around 70% of the 60 million devices prescribed each year. Chiesi’s propellant transition is expected to cut the carbon footprint of their beclometasone products by up to 90% versus that of the current propellant and aims to ensure continuity of care for patients by preserving device choice while addressing the environmental impact of these pMDIs.

Rachel Voller, Primary Care Network (PCN) Advanced Nurse Practitioner (ANP) with specialist interest in respiratory disease, Moreton & Meols and Wallasey Wellbeing PCNs said: ‘This approval supports lower-carbon respiratory care while allowing patients to remain with a device they know. Preserving a familiar device can help general practice nurses support inhaler technique, confidence and adherence, while taking environmental impact into account.’

The MHRA approval was informed by pharmacokinetic and safety studies which demonstrated therapeutic equivalence and tolerability between products formulated with HFA-152a, versus those formulated with HFA-134a.4-10

Professor 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.’