The two companies will partner to develop next-generation respiratory inhalers using the propellant HFO-1234ze.

HFO-1234ze has up to 99.9% less Global Warming Potential (GWP) than propellants currently used in respiratory medicines, states AstraZeneca.

“We are making great progress on our ambition to be zero carbon across our global operations by the end of 2025 and carbon negative across our entire value chain by 2030. Our collaboration with Honeywell demonstrates AstraZeneca’s commitment to advancing sustainable healthcare innovation, with the aim of improving outcomes for patients while reducing our environmental footprint,” says Pascal Soriot, Chief Executive Officer, AstraZeneca.

Next-generation respiratory inhalers

Recent results from the first in-human Phase I trial of the near-zero GWP propellant HFO-1234ze in a pMDI containing budesonide, glycopyrronium, formoterol fumarate in healthy adults were positive, demonstrating similar safety, tolerability and systemic exposure of the active ingredients when compared to Breztri Aerosphere (budesonide/glycopyrronium/ formoterol fumarate). AstraZeneca expects Breztri to be the first medicine to transition to this new pMDI platform, subject to regulatory approval. In addition to offering next-generation pMDIs, AstraZeneca will continue offering dry powder inhaled medicines.

Photo of Pascal Soriot: AstraZeneca