British drug-maker GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) has introduced a new once-daily bronchodilator treatment, Incruse Ellipta (umeclidinium) in the UK.

A long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA), Incruse has been developed to treat adult patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

GSK UK vice-president Dr Stephen McDonough said: "Incruse Ellipta is the latest addition to GSK's COPD portfolio.

"Adding a LAMA to our portfolio in the Ellipta inhaler will allow clinicians to tailor treatments to patients' needs, whilst reducing the need for patients to change to different types of inhaler."

According to the company, Incruse is a type of bronchodilator also known as an anticholinergic, which can relax airway muscles and improve airflow in and out of the lungs.

Umeclidinium is the third COPD treatment introduced by GSK UK this year, which can be delivered using the Ellipta inhaler. In combination with Relvar Ellipta (fluticasone furoate/vilanterol) it is the first and only triple therapy option for COPD in the same type of inhaler.

GSK noted that safety profile of umeclidinium was assessed in 1,663 patients with COPD, who received doses of 55mcg or greater for up to one year.

In May, GSK received US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for Incruse as an anticholinergic indicated for the once-daily, maintenance treatment of airflow obstruction in patients with COPD, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

The company also received marketing authorisation in the EU for Incruse as a once-daily, maintenance bronchodilator treatment to relieve symptoms in adult COPD patients.