FDA approves first generic version of asthma, COPD drug

The Food and Drug Administration yesterday approved the first generic version of Symbicort, a metered-dose inhaler for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

“Today’s approval of the first generic for one of the most commonly prescribed complex drug-device combination products to treat asthma and COPD is another step forward in our commitment to bring generic copies of complex drugs to the market, which can improve quality of life and help reduce the cost of treatment,” said Sally Choe, director of FDA’s Office of Generic Drugs.