Orion Corporation and Propeller Health, a digital therapeutics company, have announced a partnership to connect the Easyhaler line of inhalers for asthma and COPD to Propeller’s digital medicine platform.

The partnership will expand Propeller’s presence in Europe, where Orion serves patients across several countries. Propeller’s platform currently covers more than 90 percent of inhaled medicines for asthma and COPD on the market, reports Orion.

A sensor is being developed collaboratively

Orion’s existing line of Easyhaler products will connect to Propeller’s digital medicine platform via a small, custom-built sensor. The sensor, which is being developed collaboratively under this agreement, attaches to the inhaler and pairs with a mobile app. Propeller automatically tracks medication use and provides personal feedback and insights that help individuals and their doctors manage and reduce symptoms.

Development of the sensor will begin in 2019, with clinical trials, possible real world evidence projects and a broader commercial rollout to follow.

“By connecting Easyhaler to Propeller’s digital platform, we are giving our patients and their providers a new ability to improve the user experience of Easyhaler products and help patients better adhere to the treatments,” said Satu Ahomäki, Orion’s Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations. “We are thrilled to take this step to reduce the burden of asthma and COPD via a digital companion to our medicine.”

Photo of Satu Ahomäki: Orion Corporation