Teva (NYSE:TEVA) announced today that it has launched a Bluetooth-enabled version of its ProAir albuterol sulfate rescue inhaler.
The ProAir Digihaler’s sensors connect to a companion mobile app to provide inhaler-use information to healthcare providers. The new inhaler is available by prescription to U.S. patients age 4 and older, according to the Tel Aviv, Israel-based company.
The ProAir Digihaler is designed to detect, record and store inhaler event data, including timestamp and inhalation characteristics such as peak inspiratory flow. Patients are then able to view this data on the app, which informs them if their inhaler technique needs improvement. Patients can share these data with their healthcare providers.
The FDA approved the ProAir Digihaler in December 2018. It is part of a portfolio that includes the AirDuo Digihaler, which dispenses fluticasone propionate and salmeterol inhalation powder, and the ArmonAir Digihaler, which dispenses only fluticasone propionate. The digital AirDuo and ArmonAir inhalers are indicated for the maintenance treatment of asthma in patients 12 years of age and older. Teva said it expects to launch both of those products in the U.S. in the coming months.
“The launch of ProAir Digihaler and its companion app provides a great opportunity for bringing a new digital health tool to asthma and COPD patients in the U.S.,” said Teva Pharmaceuticals North America commercial EVP Brendan O’Grady in a news release. “We are especially proud to provide our first Digihaler product at a time when digital health technology is growing and continues to transform patient care, since it will enable patients to electronically record and monitor their rescue inhaler use.”
“It is our belief that ProAir Digihaler and the companion app will help address an unmet need for HCPs by providing objective rescue inhaler use data when managing their patients,” added Sven Dethlefs, EVP, global marketing & portfolio at Teva Pharmaceuticals. “Ultimately, this technology may help patients who use ProAir Digihaler and its accompanying app to have a better-informed dialogue with their (healthcare provider) about their disease management and treatment decisions.”
