GSK plc has announced positive phase III results from its clinical programme evaluating a next-generation metered dose inhaler (MDI) version of Ventolin (salbutamol). The new formulation, which uses an innovative low-carbon propellant (HFA-152a), demonstrated therapeutic equivalence and comparable safety to the existing salbutamol MDI containing HFA-134a.
The results pave the way for regulatory submissions and a potential launch in 2026, marking a major milestone toward delivering more sustainable respiratory treatment options.
Equivalent Efficacy, Lower Carbon Footprint
The phase III data confirm that replacing the current high global warming potential propellant (HFA-134a) with HFA-152a maintains the clinical performance of salbutamol. According to GSK, the next-generation formulation could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 92% per inhaler.
Kaivan Khavandi, Senior Vice President, Global Head of Respiratory, Immunology & Inflammation R&D at GSK, said:
“Healthy air is essential for healthy lungs, and our next-generation salbutamol has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 92% per inhaler. Almost six decades after its first development, this medicine remains highly valued by patients and healthcare professionals. Today, we are one step closer to a reliever MDI that can continue to support patients for decades to come.”
Meeting Patient Needs and Sustainability Goals
Globally, nearly 500 million people are affected by asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), with approximately 300 million salbutamol MDIs sold each year. While low-carbon alternatives such as dry powder inhalers (DPIs) and soft mist inhalers exist, many patients prefer MDIs for their ease of use during acute episodes.
Professor Ashley Woodcock, Professor of Respiratory Medicine at the University of Manchester, commented:
“These data should enable patients to continue using their preferred inhaler choice. This is a crucial advance to help healthcare systems meet their climate targets while optimising patient care.”
GSK’s Broader Climate Strategy
MDIs account for nearly 45% of GSK’s total global carbon footprint, primarily due to their propellant use. The company has been investing in next-generation propellant technologies and advanced manufacturing systems to mitigate this impact.
The upcoming low-carbon Ventolin aligns with GSK’s sustainability commitments and supports global efforts to decarbonize healthcare without compromising treatment efficacy or access.
About Inhaler Technologies
Inhaled medicines are delivered via metered dose inhalers (MDIs) or dry powder inhalers (DPIs).
- MDIs rely on propellants to deliver medication to the lungs.
- DPIs are propellant-free, relying instead on the patient’s inhalation, and thus carry a lower environmental impact.
About GSK
GSK is a global biopharmaceutical company committed to combining science, technology, and talent to help people get ahead of disease. The company’s research and innovation focus includes developing sustainable and effective solutions in respiratory health.
