Schering-Plough has entered into a global collaboration with Novartis AG to develop and commercialize a once-daily inhaled fixed-dose combination therapy for the treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

SP’s once-daily inhaled corticosteroid mometasone (the active ingredient in Asmanex) will be combined with Novartis’ once-daily beta2-agonist indacaterol in a single inhalation device. The combined product, with once-daily dosing, has the potential to offer patients enhanced disease control and convenience.

“This collaboration represents another action we are taking to strengthen our respiratory franchise and increase our value to health care providers and patients,” said Fred Hassan, SP’s chairman and chief executive officer. “This agreement brings together proven and promising therapeutic agents for asthma and COPD, as well as the strong technological and marketing expertise of two global pharmaceutical companies,” he added.

“Asthma and COPD patients often have to use more than one treatment and are looking for new, effective and easier ways to control their symptoms,” said Robert J. Spiegel, M.D., chief medical officer and senior vice president, Schering-Plough Research Institute. “The combination of mometasone and indacaterol has the potential to enhance current therapy and help improve the quality of life for patients.”

Under the agreement, the two companies will share development costs and there will be no initial payments by either party. The companies will co-promote the combination therapy worldwide.