Sanofi’s Chattem launches OTC medicine Nasacort Allergy 24HR Nasal Spray in US

The spray is used to provide 24 hour relief of the full range of seasonal and year-round nasal allergy symptoms, including nasal congestion, in adults and children two years of age and older.

The company said that Nasacort Allergy 24HR is the first and only medicine in its class to be available at full prescription strength without the need for a prescription.

Chattem chief executive officer Zan Guerry said, "Now that Nasacort Allergy 24HR is available over-the-counter, the millions of people who suffer from seasonal and year-round allergies have easier access to the gold standard treatment for nasal allergy symptoms."

In the US, over 60 million people suffer from seasonal and year-round hay fever and other upper respiratory allergies.

Sneezing, itchy nose, runny nose and nasal congestion are symptoms of nasal allergies, which could lead to a major disruption in the quality of life for both adults and children.

Sanofi president of North America Pharmaceuticals Anne Whitaker said the launch of Nasacort Allergy 24HR represents the company’s long-standing commitment to helping individuals living with allergies.

"This milestone builds on our heritage in the allergy category and our expertise in prescription to over-the-counter switches as we continue to expand our global consumer healthcare organization," Whitaker said.

Nasacort received approval from the US FDA to switch from prescription to OTC in October 2013.

Image: Nasacort Allergy 24HR Nasal Spray now available in US without a prescription. Photo: courtesy of Sanofi-Aventis U.S.