Sanofi Firm Chattem Launches OTC Nasacort Allergy 24HR Nasal Spray In The U.S.

Sanofi’s consumer healthcare division Chattem has launched Nasacort Allergy 24HR Nasal Spray in the U.S. The medicine is the first and only drug in its class approved for over the counter (OTC) use in the country.

NasaCort Allergy 24HR Nasal Spray is indicated for the full range of year-round and seasonal allergy symptoms. These include rhinorrhea, nasal congestion, sneezing, inflammation, and early- and late-stage allergic rhinitis (AR). The drug temporarily relieves symptoms and stops allergic cascade in patients.

Sanofi US North America Pharmaceuticals President Anne Whitaker said, “The launch of Nasacort Allergy 24HR represents our long-standing commitment to helping individuals living with allergies. This milestone builds on our heritage in the allergy category and our expertise in prescription to over-the-counter switches as we continue to expand our global consumer healthcare organization.”

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is an inflammatory response initiated by the immune system when the patient inhales allergens. AR early phase response involves nasal allergy symptoms such as runny and itchy nose. Lymphocytes and eosinophils then induce inflammation and mucus production. Late phase response includes sneezing and congestion, which could lead to an escalation of symptoms and ultimately allergic cascade. Intranasal steroids (INS) are used to arrest the cascading cycle.  Over 60 million people in the U.S. alone suffer from upper respiratory allergies such as hay fever and AR.

The treatment is indicated in adult patients and children (aged 2 years and above). NasaCort Allergy 24HR Nasal Spray is available at full prescription strength as an OTC drug.

Chattem Chief Executive Officer Zan Guerry said, “Now that Nasacort Allergy 24HR is available over-the-counter, the millions of people who suffer from seasonal and year-round allergies have easier access to the gold standard treatment for nasal allergy symptoms.”

The FDA approved Nasacort from prescription to an OTC drug in October of last year.

Source: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/sanofis-consumer-healthcare-division-chattem-164300768.html