GlaxoSmithKline says new hay fever drug “meets real needs”

GlaxoSmithKline has released new details of its new once-daily intranasal steroid drug, Allermys/Avamys (fluticasone furoate), a new treatment to provide relief for allergic rhinitis (inflammation) affecting the nose and eyes, a symptom of hay fever.

A phase II study involving 641 patients aged 12 and above demonstrated “statistically significant” improvements in the symptoms after using the drug. In comparison to the placebo, doses greater than 50mcg reduced symptoms, measure in a patient-rated, daily reflective total nasal symptom score as well as ocular measurements.

Fluticasone furoate is a new corticosteroid with an “easy-to-use” delivery system.

Dr Bruce Martin, clinical trial investigator for the study, remarked: “Existing intranasal steroids are effective against the nasal symptoms of allergic rhinitis. However, the relief of ocular symptoms remains a key unmet need for patients.”

“Patients often resort to taking multiple medications and their satisfaction with current treatment is often low. The novel corticosteroid fluticasone furoate, with its effect on both nasal and ocular symptoms in an innovative, easy-to-use delivery system, may help address the real needs of allergic rhinitis patients,” he added.

GlaxoSmithKline is already a leader in the field of anti-hayfever and over-the-counter (OTC) allergy drugs, producing Piriton, Piriteze, Beconase and Flixonase.

Other rivals Schering-Plough’s Clarityn and UCB’s Zirtek.

According to the website of Benadryl, another rival anti-allergy OTC drug produced by Pfizer, the most common causes of allergies are pollen, proteins excreted by dust mites and cat and dog dander (skin and hair).

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