FDA Approves Sanofi Allergy Spray, Nasacort

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) just announced that a new nonprescription anti-allergy nasal spray received approval via the organization.

Chattem-parent Sanofi announced Friday that the FDA approved Nasacort Allergy 24HR nasal spray that can be purchased over-the-counter. The seasonal treatment can treat year-round allergies for adults and children 2 years and older, according to various reports.

Nasacort is the first and only medicine in its class to be available without a prescription, according to MedPage Today. As over 60 million Americans suffer from nasal allergeries, this new drug may provide key relief for those in need.

"We believe there is significant value in making certain types of medicines, like Nasacort, directly available to consumers," said Anne Whitaker, president of North America Pharmaceuticals for Sanofi US, via a statement. "Allergy sufferers will benefit from having an additional treatment option, and it's a strong addition to our existing consumer health portfolio."

The Wall Street Journal notes that approximately $2 billion worth of nasal steroid allergy sprays were sold last year in the U.S., according to IMS Health, a health-care technology and information company.

"Additional information included in the labeling informs consumers that when using this product, the growth rate of some children might be slightly slower. The labeling also states that if a child needs to use the spray for longer than two months a year, the parent should talk to the child's doctor," the FDA said. 

Will you or anyone you know be using this medication? Please share in the comments below.