Indacaterol (Onbrez Breezhaler) - Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Single device LABA is not recommended in Asthma or COPD.
Combined LAMA/LABA is the bronchodilator treatment of choice for patients with COPD who are breathless or having exacerbations following treatment with SABA.

Existing LABA patients, whose symptoms are under control, can continue with their current treatment until both they and their NHS healthcare professional agree it is appropriate to change.

Inhaler devices should be prescribed by BRAND.

See COPD guidelines for more information

Since the decision was made in January 2011, more clinical trials have been published and the PCN have been asked to reconsider their decision. Local respiratory physicians have been consulted during the process and their comments were made available to the network members. Current practice should remain. Indacaterol should continue to be designated a BLACK drug, not recommended for routine prescribing. It may be considered as a treatment option for a small cohort of patients requiring social care package which is provided once daily.

Until more evidence is available the committee concurred that current practice should remain and Indacterol should not be recommended for routine prescribing. (Considered as a treatment option for a small cohort of patients requiring social care package which is provided once daily).