GlaxoSmithKline has entered into an agreement with the US Government to provide states with the anti-viral Relenza (zanamivir for inhalation) as they prepare for a potential influenza pandemic.
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is guaranteeing the initial purchase of $16.8 million of Relenza. This purchase will help states, territories, and the District of Columbia to begin adding Relenza to their pandemic stockpiles at a federally subsidized price. Over the two-year contract, these jurisdictions can make additional purchases of Relenza up to a potential total of 15.5 million treatment courses, a GSK release stated.
"This agreement signals another critical step in preparing America for the threat of a possible flu pandemic," said David Stout, President Pharmaceutical Operations, GlaxoSmithKline. "Government stockpiles will help people to get anti-virals like Relenza quickly if a pandemic occurs."
To date, HHS has announced the purchase of nearly 4 million treatment courses of Relenza for the Strategic National Stockpile.
Relenza is approved for both the prophylaxis and treatment of Influenza A and B in children and adults. Relenza is not recommended for people who have chronic lung disease such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Some patients have had bronchospasm (wheezing) or serious breathing problems when they used Relenza. Relenza is an inhaled medicine delivered through a device called a Diskhaler to the surface of the upper respiratory tract.