FDA approve new drug for the treatment of COPD

ST. LOUIS (KMOX) - The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a new drug for the treatment of Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD)

This new drug is called Ohtuvayre or it's also called ensifentrine. Ohtuvayre is the first inhaled product with a novel mechanism of action available for the maintenance treatment of COPD in more than 20 years.

Dr. Thomas Siler is the medical director of Pulmonary Rehab at SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital in St. Charles, Missouri and says this inhaled drug has no G-I side effects -- unlike the other treatments that are given orally.

"The other difference with this drug is not only does it reduce having a flare or a exasperation of your COPD, it also improves your lung function," said Siler.