State Trading Organization (STO), in collaboration with AstraZeneca, has introduced two groundbreaking products for respiratory care in the Maldives: the Symbicort Turbuhaler and Pulmicort Respules. The launch, held on December 7 at Dharumavantha Hospital’s 24th floor, marks a significant advancement in the treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in the Maldives.
The event featured a keynote address by Dr. Rennis Davis, a distinguished pulmonologist from India, who emphasized the importance of adhering to the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) guidelines. Dr. Davis highlighted the transition away from over-reliance on Short-Acting Beta-Agonists (SABA) alone and the need for maintenance and reliever therapies to improve patient outcomes.
The products introduced offer innovative solutions to address critical aspects of respiratory health:
- Symbicort Turbuhaler: This advanced dry powder inhaler ensures fast and effective relief, offering a more convenient alternative to traditional SABA relievers.
- Pulmicort Respules: Designed for rapid action, these respules dissolve through the airway mucus layer within six minutes, delivering potent pulmonary vasoconstrictive effects in just 30 minutes. They reduce asthma symptoms effectively, minimizing the risks associated with systemic steroids.
Nearly 60 physicians attended the launch, fostering discussions on guideline-driven treatments and strategies to enhance patient outcomes. These revolutionary products align with global standards and reinforce STO’s commitment to bringing advanced healthcare solutions to the Maldives.