Lupin gets Health Canada approval for generic Spiriva for COPD treatment

Lupin has announced that its subsidiary in Canada, Lupin Pharma Canada has received approval from Health Canada to market a generic version of Spiriva (tiotropium bromide inhalation powder) for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in Canada.

Tiotropium Bromide Inhalation Powder is used as a long-term maintenance bronchodilator for patients with COPD, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It effectively relieves symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness in COPD patients.

The original medication, Tiotropium Bromide Inhalation Powder (RLD Spiriva), generated an estimated annual sales of US$ 42 million in Canada based on IQVIA MAT Q4 of 2022 data.

Lupin’s entry into the market with a generic alternative reflects its dedication to providing cost-effective solutions for patients in need of complex treatments, reinforcing its presence in the respiratory care domain.

Dr Sofia Mumtaz — Lupin President – Legal, Canada, Australia, and Japan said: “This approval of the first generic for Tiotropium Bromide Inhalation Powder by Health Canada emphasizes our commitment to providing affordable options of complex products for patients in Canada, particularly in the respiratory therapeutic area.”

Last year, Lupin secured approval from the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) for Lutio, a generic version of Spiriva (Tiotropium bromide).