GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) announced the presentation of new data on fluticasone furoate nasal spray (FFNS), an enhanced affinity intranasal corticosteroid (INS) currently in development for use in the treatment of allergic rhinitis.

The data, presented at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Allergy & Immunology (AAAAI) in San Diego, are from three phase III clinical trials conducted in seasonal allergic rhinitis (commonly known as hay fever) and perennial allergic rhinitis which demonstrated efficacy in treating a range of nasal allergy symptoms, i.e. congestion, sneezing, itchy and runny nose (posters 1190, 908, 910, 906 and 254). The two studies in seasonal allergy demonstrated efficacy in improving ocular symptoms of burning/itching, redness and watering of the eyes. Symptom relief lasted for the full 24-hour dosing interval with once-daily administration in all three studies.

In two phase III clinical studies (poster #1190, 908, 910, and 906), fluticasone furoate nasal spray (FFNS) was more effective than placebo in relieving both the nasal and eye symptoms of patients 12 years and older with seasonal allergic rhinitis. One additional Phase III study (poster #254) among individuals with perennial allergic rhinitis - year-round nasal allergies - found FFNS to be more effective than placebo in relieving nasal symptoms.

"These studies are promising for millions of patients who continue to seek relief for their allergy symptoms " said Robert Nathan, M.D., Allergy & Asthma Associates, Colorado Springs, CO, who led one of the studies. "Seasonal and perennial allergies have a significant impact on quality of life, so new, effective medications would be welcomed," he added.

Researchers presented two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials of the effect of FFNS 110 mcg once daily on nasal and eye symptoms in patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis. The results of the studies were detailed in four poster presentations.