Novartis has launched Onbrez Breezhaler (indacaterol), a dry-powder inhaler containing a novel long-acting beta agonist for COPD.

It stimulates intracellular adenyl cyclase, resulting in increased levels of cyclic adenosine monophosphate. This causes relaxation of bronchial smooth muscle; therefore, indacaterol acts locally as a bronchodilator when inhaled. For more information visit www.novartis.co.uk.