STO Launches Advanced Inhaler and Nebulised Solution in Maldives

The State Trading Organization (STO) has introduced two innovative respiratory products, Symbicort Turbuhaler and Pulmicort Respules, in collaboration with global biopharmaceutical leader AstraZeneca.

Symbicort Turbuhaler is an advanced dry powder inhaler designed for ease of use and offers fast-acting and superior relief compared to traditional SABA relievers. 

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Pulmicort Respules is a nebulised solution that delivers rapid action by dissolving through the airway mucus within six minutes, delivering a strong pulmonary vasoconstrictive effect in just 30 minutes. This mechanism effectively reduces asthma symptoms with lower risks of exacerbation, making it a highly efficient alternative to systemic steroids.  

The launch event, held yesterday at Dharumavantha Hospital, marks a significant step in improving the management of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in the country.

The event featured a keynote address by Dr. Rennis Davis, a renowned pulmonologist from India, who highlighted the importance of the GINA (Global Initiative for Asthma) guidelines in treating asthma and COPD. Dr. Davis emphasised the need to reduce the overuse of short-acting beta-agonists (SABA) as a sole treatment and advocated for a combined maintenance and reliever approach to improve patient outcomes.

Nearly 60 physicians attended the event, discussing the latest guidelines for asthma and COPD treatment. The launch also provided a platform for healthcare professionals to explore how these new therapies could enhance patient care and overall quality of life.

As the leading state-owned enterprise operating pharmacies across the Maldives, STO continues to play a pivotal role in ensuring access to essential medicines under the state health insurance scheme.