Indacaterol entices both COPD and asthma patients

The novel, once-daily, long-acting β₂-adrenoceptor agonist (LABA) indacaterol [QAB 149] provides rapid and persistent bronchodilation, according to two studies presented at the 102nd International Conference of the American Thoracic Society (ATS) [San Diego, California, US; May 2006]. Conducted in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma, the two studies showed that once-daily indacaterol at doses of 50−400µg provided sustained bronchodilatory efficacy throughout 24 hours, with a rapid onset of action and no loss of effect after 7 days of therapy. Indacaterol was well tolerated in both studies.