Altana Pharma demonstrates effect and safety of Omnaris

Altana Pharma has announced the results of a new study investigating the long-term safety of Omnaris, the company’s intranasal corticosteroid, containing ciclesonide as an active substance.

The drug is a ciclesonide nasal spray that delivers a 200 micrograms dose once a day to patients with the nasal symptoms of perennial allergic rhinitis (PAR).

Research into the long-term safety of the drug led by medical director Dr Paul Chervinsky in patients with PAR showed that the treatment was well tolerated and safe over 12 months, with the incidence of adverse affects similar between groups in the study.

The company also conducted simultaneous research by Paul H. Ratner into the 24-hour effect of Omnaris administered to patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR) or PAR.

“Omnaris administered intranasally significantly improved total nasal symptoms scores compared with placebo in patients with SAR or PAR,” the company reported.

Earlier this year, Dr Hans-Joachim Lohrisch, chief executive officer of Altana Pharma, reported that Omnaris was provided allergic rhinitis patients an “innovative treatment option”.

He noted that intranasal corticosteroids – that operate through reducing inflammation, the primary cause of nasal symptoms – are thought to be the best treatment for the condition.