News

Zydus Introduces India’s First Affordable Drug-Free OPEP Device for Respiratory Care

Handheld PEPAIR device aims to improve airway clearance for millions living with chronic lung conditions

• By PharmaNews Live Desk
• Ahmedabad
• Feb 17, 2026

News

Zydus Lifesciences has launched PEPAIR™, India’s first affordable oscillating positive expiratory pressure (OPEP) device, marking a significant step toward expanding access to non-drug respiratory care for patients with chronic lung diseases.

First-of-its-Kind Device Targets Chronic Respiratory Conditions

The company announced the launch of PEPAIR™, a drug-free, handheld OPEP device designed to support airway clearance and improve breathing in patients suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and bronchiectasis.

Equipped with a three-resistance system and a patented design, the device helps loosen mucus, open airways, and aid effective clearance during exhalation. According to industry estimates, more than 90 lakh people in India live with these chronic respiratory conditions, many of whom require daily airway-clearance support.

Affordable Access to Clinically Recommended Therapy

OPEP-based airway clearance is recommended in established clinical guidance, but access has remained limited due to cost barriers. Zydus said PEPAIR™ is being introduced to bridge this gap by offering the device at a price of ₹990 per unit, making it more accessible for routine, at-home use.

The therapy works by generating pressure and vibrations during exhalation, which assists in clearing impaired mucociliary pathways, reducing airway obstruction, and easing cough symptoms—key challenges faced by patients with chronic mucus hypersecretion.

Patient-Centric Innovation Focus

Commenting on the launch, Sharvil Patel, Managing Director of Zydus Lifesciences, said the company’s approach to innovation is centred on improving everyday care for patients.

He said the introduction of PEPAIR™ reflects the company’s intent to offer a simple, drug-free solution that supports better breathing for people living with chronic respiratory illnesses, while continuing to expand its footprint in respiratory healthcare.

Developed in Partnership With Indian Medical Device Innovator

PEPAIR™ has been launched through an agreement with AeroDel Technology Innovations, an Indian medical device firm focused on pulmonary rehabilitation and inhalation technologies.

AeroDel is the innovator of the underlying OPEP device platform and serves as the manufacturing partner for the product. The collaboration aligns with broader efforts to promote indigenous medical device innovation while improving affordability and scale.

Respiratory Disease Burden on the Rise

The launch comes amid a sharp rise in respiratory diseases across India, driven by factors such as persistent air pollution, climate-related changes in allergens and ozone levels, rapid urbanisation, and delays in diagnosing chronic lung conditions.

Healthcare experts have increasingly highlighted the need for accessible, non-pharmacological interventions to complement drug therapies, particularly for long-term disease management.

Strengthening Zydus’ Respiratory Portfolio

Zydus is among India’s leading players in respiratory care, with a long presence in both oral and inhalation therapies. The company has historically led segments such as oral bronchodilators and has built a broad inhalation portfolio spanning combination therapies and single-inhaler treatments.

The launch of PEPAIR™ marks an expansion beyond pharmaceuticals into device-based respiratory solutions, reinforcing Zydus’ strategy to address unmet needs across the respiratory care continuum.