Altana and Sanofi-Aventis' experimental asthma therapy, Alvesco, has performed well in two studies, significantly improving patient quality-of-life and demonstrating a low incidence of mouth- and throat-related side effects.
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In the first study, conducted in patients aged 12 years and older, researchers concluded that treatment taken once a day with Alvesco (ciclesonide) significantly improves quality-of-life in patients with mild-to-moderate asthma compared with placebo.
In the second study, conducted in pediatric patients, new data revealed that once-daily treatment with Alvesco is associated with a low incidence of local oropharyngeal side effects (thrush, hoarseness and sore throat) and is well-tolerated in patients with mild-to-severe asthma.
Alvesco is an inhaled corticosteroid with novel release and distribution properties. Inhaled corticosteroids, considered to be the foundation of asthma treatment, work by reducing inflammation – the underlying disease process – in the lungs and airways.
The pediatric finding has particular significance as inhaled corticosteroids are often associated with mouth- and throat-related side effects.