GSK nasal spray ‘effectively treats symptoms’

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) has announced the publication of new data regarding its fluticasone fuorate nasal spray (FFNS) currently being developed by the firm as a treatment for patients with allergic rhinitis.

The company presented the data from three phase III clinical trials of the compound as a treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis and perennial allergic rhinitis at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Allergy & Immunology.

FFNS is an enhanced affinity intranasal corticosteroid that blocks the action of inflammatory mediators throughout the allergy process, including the early stages.

According to the clinical trials, the drug was well-tolerated, with no serious adverse affects, while the compound showed efficacy in reducing symptoms of ocular burning and itching, redness and watering, with symptom relief lasting for 24 hours following a single dose.

Robert Nathan of Allergy & Asthma Associates, said: “These studies are promising for millions of patients who continue to seek relief for their allergy symptoms.”

He added that those suffering with either perennial or seasonal allergies can have a reduced quality of life, with novel medications to treat symptoms to be welcomed.

In July 2006, GSK announced that it had submitted FFNS to the regulatory authorities in Europe for marketing approval, with the drug having the proposed name of Avamys.