Schering-Plough Corp (NYSE:SGP) announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved its once-a-day asthma corticosteroid inhaler for children. The inhaled steroid for the prevention of asthma attacks can be used with children as young as 4.
Asmanex Twisthaler received FDA approval two years ago as a maintenance treatment to prevent flare-ups in adults and children over the age of 12. The dosage for children under 12 is roughly half the adult dosage of 220 micrograms. While other asthma product exisit for young children all must be taken more often throughout the day.
The unique aspect of the Twisthaler is that it does not have a propellant like other inhalers. It is activated as the patients inserts the inhaler into their mouth and inhales. A counter on the product keeps track of the remaining doses.
Asmanex Twisthaler has similar side effects to other corticosteroid inhalants such as stunted growth, fungal infections of the mouth, and an increased risk of glaucoma or cataracts. The more common side effects include headaches, sore throat, muscle, bone and back pain, respitory infections or upset stomach.
Schering expects the Asmanex Twisthaler to be available to children 4 - 11 years of age in the second half of 2008.
[Source: YahooNews]
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