The approval of Breo Ellipta from GlaxoSmithKline plc (NYSE:GSK) by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) three years ago was not an automatic leeway for the med to fill in the gaps left by megablockbuster, Advair. However, things are now beginning to show up according to CEO Andrew Witty. Over the last 12 months Advair continues to diminish, the COPD newcomer has been able to gain up to 6 points of total prescription share, probably as a result of the asthma indication added last year.
Despite caution by the industry watchers whether the GSK’s youngest respiratory meds would pull through, Witty says that the company has remained positive and optimistic over the years. He further confirms that the environment is more stable now with notable progression. In fact, there is a planned share increase of new-to-brand prescriptions with Breo, which is expected to give the total order an actual dimension.
Breo has struggled over the years to make a hard-to-copy name against, Advair, alongside generics giants, in the likes of Mylan NV (NASDAQ:MYL) and Jordan’s Hikma whose versions have already been filled with the FDA. Apparently, Witty seems inevitable that GSK will pull through; regardless of the payer pressure given that the company has already made it big in the genericization effect.
The feeling of being able to pull through is also heightened by the addition of other products in the Ellipta family which include Incruse and Anoro. The combination of these two with Breo is expected to bring on board Breo.
However, Wity was quick to point out that it may take the time to build on Anoro’s infrastructure given that doctor’s rigidity to embrace new habits. On the other hand, the drug has not been responsive. Nevertheless, the company maintains that it will hold onto its commitment to ensure that the respiratory lineup is performing better. In any case, it is a race against the most preferable for whatever illness.