Respiri makes strategic appointments to facilitate UK wheezo launch

Days after obtaining Food and Drug Administration approval for sales of its wheezo device in the US, Respiri (ASX: RSH) has progressed its international expansion plans with strategic adviser appointments to assist with preparing a UK market launch in the final quarter of this year.

Dr Andrew Weekes and Dr Mark Levy have now joined Respiri to provide strategic advice to its board.

In his role, UK-trained Dr Weekes will guide the Respiri board on expansion of its wheezo technology including commercialisation, clinical development, research and development, introduction to key opinion leaders and relationship management.

Dr Weeks is currently Australia’s country medical director for New York Stock Exchange listed GlaxoSmithKline, which is a global leader in respiratory diseases.

Respiri says Dr Weekes led GlaxoSmithKline’s new framework for medical education and healthcare professional interaction.

He has more than 20 years’ experience in global or national roles in the UK, France and Australia and has worked for pharmaceutical companies AbbVie and Servier.

“We are delighted [Dr Weekes] has accepted this advisory role to the company,” Respiri chief executive officer Marjan Mikel said.

“His substantial experience within a leading pharma company along with his global experience including the UK, harmonises with our preparations and plans for a UK launch, which have now commenced and remain on track for a Q4 2021 launch in that important asthma market,” Mr Mikel added.

Dr Mark Levy to advise on UK

Dr Levy was also appointed to act as an advisor for Respiri on the UK launch. He has been an executive member of the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) since 2009.

Respiri noted GINA is the pre-eminent body for setting global treatment and management guidelines for asthma.

With his knowledge and connections at GINA, Dr Levy is also experienced in respiratory medicine, the UK medical system processes and the intricacies of the NHS.

“He has already provided us with invaluable advice and introductions as we plan to launch our organisation in the UK later in 2021,” Mr Mikel said.

Other UK launch initiatives

In readiness for the UK launch, Respiri continues to advance commercial discussions with distribution partner Cipla and other potential partners.

The company is also in negotiations with “key” UK clinicians regarding participation as a technology partner in asthma related studies.

Effectively, Respiri anticipates participation in these studies will build awareness and educate clinicians on its wheezo device and technology. It is also expected to provide further scientific evidence for wheezo’s inclusion in asthma care quality standards.