Mumbai, April 23 -- The approval covers a product that is the first AB-rated generic therapeutic equivalent of Ventolin HFA, originally marketed by GlaxoSmithKline.

The drug is indicated for the treatment or prevention of bronchospasm in adults and children aged four years and above with reversible obstructive airway disease. It is also used to prevent exercise-induced bronchospasm in patients in the same age group.

Cipla said the approval strengthens its respiratory portfolio in the U.S. market. The company already has approved generics for both Ventolin HFA and Proventil HFA.

According to data from IQVIA, the total U.S. market for albuterol inhalers is estimated at around $1.5 billion.

The development is seen as a positive for Cipla...