The UK has become the first country in the world to approve asthma inhalers that use a new-generation propellant designed to reduce environmental impact without compromising patient care.
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency has approved updated versions of Clenil Modulite 100 micrograms inhaler and Clenil Modulite 200 micrograms inhaler, both containing beclometasone dipropionate for the maintenance treatment of asthma in adults and children.
The landmark approval, announced on 21 July 2026, represents the world’s first authorisation of pressurised metered-dose inhalers (pMDIs) using the next-generation propellant HFA-152a. While the propellant is not an active medicine, it plays a crucial role in delivering medication directly into the lungs.
The newly approved inhalers are expected to become available across the UK later this year. Until then, existing Clenil Modulite inhalers will remain available and patients do not need to make any changes to their treatment.
Asthma remains one of the most common long-term respiratory conditions, affecting millions of people across the UK. Symptoms can include wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and shortness of breath, with inhaled corticosteroids forming a cornerstone of routine management for many patients.
Commenting on the approval, Julian Beach, MHRA Executive Director of Healthcare Quality and Access, said:
“Keeping patients safe and enabling their access to high-quality, safe and effective medicines are key priorities for us.
“Asthma inhalers play a vital role in helping millions of patients manage their condition and maintain their quality of life.
“This approval marks the world’s first authorisation of an inhaler using the next-generation propellant HFA-152a. It demonstrates how innovation can support both patient care and environmental sustainability while maintaining the high standards of quality, safety and effectiveness patients expect.
“As with all medicines, we will continue to monitor its safety and effectiveness closely.”
The approved products continue to use beclometasone dipropionate, a well-established corticosteroid medicine that works by reducing inflammation in the airways. By controlling airway inflammation, the treatment helps prevent asthma symptoms and reduce the risk of exacerbations.
Importantly for healthcare professionals and patients, there are no changes to the active ingredient, approved indications or recommended dosing schedules.
According to the MHRA, the approval was supported by evidence demonstrating that the new formulations perform comparably to currently authorised versions while maintaining the same standards of quality, safety and clinical effectiveness.
Like existing beclometasone inhalers, the most commonly reported side effects include oral thrush, hoarseness and throat irritation. Updated prescribing information and patient guidance will be made available when the new products launch later in 2026.
The MHRA has confirmed that it will continue to closely monitor the safety and effectiveness of the inhalers through its established pharmacovigilance systems.
For NHS leaders, healthcare professionals and sustainability teams, the authorisation highlights how pharmaceutical innovation can help balance clinical outcomes with environmental objectives, supporting broader efforts to reduce the carbon footprint of respiratory care while ensuring patients continue to receive proven treatments.
Image credit: iStock
