The Egyptian Drug Authority approves the launch of “Trelegy Ellipta” — a new hope for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma

Edit: maher badr

The global pharmaceutical company GSK announced the launch of “Trelegy Ellipta” following the approval of the Egyptian Drug Authority. Trelegy represents a new breakthrough in the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma.

COPD is a global health challenge that affects millions of people worldwide. It is more common among the elderly and smokers, ranking as the third leading cause of death worldwide after strokes and heart attacks. The main risk factors and causes of the disease include smoking, exposure to polluted air, dust, and chemicals in certain occupations.

COPD is often diagnosed in late stages, as many people live with the disease for years without realizing it. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial, as they help slow down the deterioration of lung function, reduce the severity of symptoms, and prevent irreversible lung damage. Without treatment, COPD can lead to serious complications that worsen over time, including reduced lung function, shortness of breath, chronic cough, and an increased risk of respiratory infections and cardiovascular diseases. It also significantly affects patients’ quality of life, limiting their physical activity and daily tasks. Furthermore, it places a substantial economic burden on both patients and the state due to higher healthcare costs, hospital admissions, and long-term care needs.

Asthma, on the other hand, is a chronic respiratory condition that affects people of all ages and regions. However, children and young adults are among the most vulnerable groups. In addition to its physical impact, asthma also carries social and economic consequences. Uncontrolled asthma leads to frequent absences from school or work, decreased productivity, and substantial annual healthcare costs for countries.

Estimates indicate that the prevalence of chronic respiratory diseases is increasing in Egypt, while global statistics show that about 200 million people suffer from COPD worldwide. Additionally, asthma affects more than 340 million people globally and causes around 500,000 deaths annually due to complications, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Mortality rates from COPD and asthma are notably higher in low- and middle-income countries.

In a promising development, “Trelegy Ellipta” emerges as an important addition to the available treatment options. The new medication is approved for both COPD and asthma, combining three effective medicinal components in one inhaler.

GSK organized a high-level scientific event to launch Trelegy Ellipta in Egypt, attended by a distinguished group of respiratory health experts, including:
• Prof. Ashraf Hatem, Professor of Chest Diseases, former Minister of Health, and Chairman of the Health Committee in the Egyptian Parliament
• Prof. Adel Khattab, Professor of Chest Diseases, Ain Shams University

Prof. Awad Tag El-Din, Professor of Chest Diseases at the Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, former Minister of Health, and Presidential Advisor for Health and Prevention Affairs, explained that COPD is a chronic respiratory disease with serious consequences that can lead to respiratory failure. It develops gradually due to inhaling cigarette or shisha smoke or air pollution. He stressed the importance of recognizing symptoms such as cough, phlegm, and shortness of breath in patients over 35 years old. He also highlighted the need for public awareness campaigns to encourage smoking cessation and educate people about the disease’s symptoms and the risks of delayed diagnosis and treatment.

Prof. Gehan El-Assal, Head of the Chest Diseases Department at the Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, stated that asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways inside the lungs, leading to difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing, and chest tightness. She added that asthma patients are well aware of the anxiety and discomfort experienced during attacks, as well as their inability to exercise or perform daily activities. However, she affirmed that asthma is a treatable disease, and symptoms can be controlled through proper treatment and lifestyle adjustments.

Eng. Hassan Fahmy, General Manager of GSK Egypt, expressed his happiness over launching Trelegy Ellipta in Egypt, noting that Egypt is the first country in Africa to introduce this medication. He stated his confidence that Trelegy will serve as a new hope and a vital treatment option for COPD and asthma patients.

Fahmy added: “Trelegy is the latest medication launched by GSK in Egypt as part of our strategy to introduce the newest innovative medicines to the Egyptian market. Over recent years, the company has launched a range of advanced drugs using the latest global technologies. This reaffirms our commitment to providing the best and most innovative treatments to Egyptian patients across various sectors — including vaccines for adults and children, oncology drugs, and respiratory medicines, as well as specialized therapies. We look forward to introducing more innovative medications in the near future.”