Ranbaxy Laboratories Limited today announced the launch of its branded product, Osovair (Formoterol + Ciclesonide) inhalation capsules in India for the treatment of Asthma.

This unique combination has been launched for the first time in the world combining the fastest acting Long Acting Beta 2 Agonist Formoterol and the new inhaled corticosteroid Ciclesonide.

According to a company press release, Osovair is available in Rheocaps as Osovair 160 mcg, Osovair 320 mcg, depending on the severity of Asthma patients. Osovair contains 12mcg of formoterol making it the first ICS/LABA combination of its type to be approved any where in the world. The product is to be used only with the Rheohaler, which is the world's first capsule based multidose dry-powder inhaler.
Commenting on the launch, Sanjeev I Dani, senior vice president & regional director, Asia & CIS, Ranbaxy, said, "We are delighted to launch this unique product Osovair, the only combination of its type, recommended for use once-a-day. The introduction of a series of novel products in the field of asthma is a reflection of our innovative capabilities and underscores our commitment to the physicians and patients."

Earlier in 2006, Ranbaxy had launched Osonide (Ciclesonide) Inhaler, a novel once-a-day, product in this segment. In May 2006, Ranbaxy entered into an in-licensing agreement for the Indian domestic market, with the Netherlands based Pharma company, Eurodrug Laboratories, for the asthma product Doxophylline - a Novel Xanthine Bronchodilator, sold under the brand name "Synasma".

India presently has an estimated 15-20 million asthmatic patients and the estimated prevalence rate in 5-11 year old children is between 10-15 per cent. A large segment of population is susceptible to this disorder. The classified triggers for asthma include environment pollutants, molds, dust mites, certain food etc and the disease affects all sections of the society.