The MHRA has approved the first pressurised metered-dose inhaler with low Global Warming Potential propellant for asthma patients nationwide.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has approved the first pressurised metered-dose inhaler (pMDI) that contains a next-generation low Global Warming Potential propellant.  

The revised type, Clenil Modulite, is manufactured by Cheisi and has been approved for both 100mcg and 200mcg formats. It contains beclometasone dipropionate for maintenance treatment of asthma in adults and children. 

The aim is for it to significantly lower carbon footprints while maintaining the clinical benefits, familiarity and usability that healthcare professionals and patients see in the current versions of Clenil Modulite. These remain available at present.

This is the first approval featuring the propellant HFA-152a, which isn’t an active medicine itself, but is used to deliver the inhaled dose.  

These new versions will become available to UK patients later this year. 

Environmental load 

pMDIs are the most widely used type of inhaler device in the UK, accounting for around 70% of the 60 million prescribed yearly. However, they also contribute to 3% of the NHS’ total carbon footprint. 

The UK is the first country to approve the product, showcasing some commitment to consider the environment within respiratory care.

“This approval… demonstrates how innovation can support both patient care and environmental sustainability while maintaining the high standards of quality, safety and effectiveness patients expect,” said Julian Beach, executive director of healthcare quality and access at the MHRA.

Chiesi also intends to be named the first pharmaceutical company to achieve Net Zero greenhouse gas emissions across its entire value chain by 2035, a decade ahead of the NHS’ own target.