Zydus Lifesciences Limited has launched REVAHALE (revefenacin) in India, described by the company as the country’s first once-daily nebulised long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA) indicated for the maintenance treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

REVAHALE is the first and only LAMA currently available in India that combines once-daily dosing with nebulised administration, offering an additional treatment option for COPD patients who require or benefit from nebulised therapy. 

The therapy is designed to provide sustained 24-hour bronchodilation through a single daily dose.

According to Zydus, the product addresses some of the challenges associated with inhaler-dependent therapies, particularly among elderly patients and those with severe respiratory impairment. 

COPD patients may experience difficulties with handheld inhalers because of limitations in inhaler technique, cognitive impairment, severe breathlessness or an inability to generate sufficient inspiratory flow for effective drug delivery.

REVAHALE uses a nebulised delivery platform that reduces dependence on inhalation technique and inspiratory effort. The therapy is compatible with standard jet nebulisers, providing flexibility for patients and caregivers.

Revefenacin is designed to provide sustained bronchodilation over 24 hours with once-daily administration. Clinical studies have reported significant and sustained improvements in lung function among patients with moderate to very severe COPD, while maintaining a favourable safety profile.

The lung-selective design of revefenacin is intended to maximise bronchodilatory effects in the airways while limiting systemic exposure.

By combining once-daily administration, nebulised delivery and sustained 24-hour bronchodilation, Zydus said REVAHALE offers a differentiated maintenance treatment option for COPD patients, particularly those who face challenges with conventional handheld inhaler devices.

COPD remains a major public health challenge in India and is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. The launch of REVAHALE adds a once-daily nebulised LAMA option to the country’s COPD treatment landscape, potentially addressing an important need among patients who require an alternative to inhaler-based drug delivery.