WASHINGTON — Federal health experts today brushed off lingering safety questions about a popular inhaler drug and suggested it carry bolder benefit claims.

The Food and Drug Administration's panel of lung specialists voted 11-1 in favor of new labeling about the benefits of Boehringer Ingelheim's Spiriva Handihaler, which is approved to treat lung disease.

The FDA is not required to follow the group's advice though it usually does.

The German company submitted studies to the FDA showing Spiriva reduces specific side effects of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, such as coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath.

"I thought both trials showed unequivocal evidence of benefit," said panelist Daren Knoell, a pharmacy professor at Ohio State University.

Boehringer said in a statement it was pleased with the panel's vote and would continue working with the FDA as it completes its review. A company spokeswoman declined to disclose the expected date for an FDA decision.

Spiriva is co-marketed in the U.S. by Pfizer, the world's largest drugmaker.