FLONASE Nasal Spray now available in the United States; once-daily anti-rhinitic nasal spray now available for perennial and seasonal allergy sufferers

Business Wire, Feb 7, 1995

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C.--(HealthWire)--Feb. 7, 1995-- Just when many allergy sufferers are breathing a sigh of relief after another battle with fall pollen season, others find that the stuffed up, runny, itchy nose persists, even in February.

The culprit may be perennial allergic rhinitis or year-round allergy. For many, allergies are a problem during winter months when exposure to indoor perennial allergens (mold, dust mites, animal dander and cockroaches) is at its highest.

Perennial allergies can be confused with a cold because the symptoms are similar. But whereas a cold disappears after a week to tend days, allergies linger on for several weeks, or longer.

Perennial allergy sufferers have a new treatment option this winter. FLONASE(TM) (fluticasone propionate) Nasal Spray, the first and only aqueous once-a-day anti-rhinitic(TM) nasal spray is now available by prescription. It is indicated for the treatment of seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis in patients 12 years of age and older. It should not be used for the treatment of nonallergic rhinitis. Patients should use FLONASE at regular intervals as directed since its effectiveness depends on its regular use.

Eli Meltzer, M.D., Clinical Professor of Pediatrics at the University of California, San Diego, and in practice with the Allergy and Asthma Medical Group and Research Center in San Diego, explained that FLONASE combines the comfort of a water-based spray with the convenience of once-daily dosing.

FLONASE works by reducing the inflammation of the nasal passages, thereby relieving the accompanying nasal symptoms. Antihistamines or decongestants, used by many allergy sufferers, relieve some allergic symptoms, but do not treat one of the primary causes of patient discomfort -- inflammation.

Allergic rhinitis affects more than 35 million Americans and is the most common chronic disease. Yet estimates from one study indicate that only one-fifth of allergy sufferers seek treatment from a physician for their condition, and many mistake their allergy symptoms for a cold or chronic postnasal drip.

``It is unfortunate that many allergic rhinitis sufferers have learned to accept the discomfort of their symptoms -- they don't have to,'' said Dr. Meltzer. ``They should talk to their doctors about treatment plans.''

FLONASE has been available overseas since 1991. U.S. clinical studies in more than 2,400 patients have shown that FLONASE is effective and well-tolerated at recommended doses. There are no restrictions on use by patients taking antibiotics or antifungals, or by patients with cardiovascular disease. Generally, FLONASE, has side effects similar to other widely-used prescription nasal sprays. In studies of FLONASE, patients experienced nasal burning, nasal irritation, nosebleeds, pharyngitis and headaches as the most common drug-related side effects.

FLONASE will be marketed in the United States by Glaxo Inc. Glaxo Inc. researches, develops, manufactures and markets prescription medicines, including treatments for respiratory, gastrointestinal, central nervous system, infectious, dermatological and cardiovascular diseases.

CONTACT: Glaxo Inc., Research Triangle Park

Ramona Jones, 919/248-2839