A new nasal spray called Avamys™ (fluticasone furoate) currently on trials has received a positive opinion from the European Medicines Agency (EMEA) for the treatment of the symptoms of allergic rhinitis in adults, adolescents (12 years and over) and children (6 - 11 years). Aside from its efficacy in treating overall nasal allergy symptoms including congestion, sneezing, and itchy and runny nose in adults and children, Avamys also appeared to improve overall eye symptoms associated with allergy such as red, itchy, burning and watery eyes in adult and adolescent patients with seasonal allergies. What's unique about this spray? The patient-friendly design of the delivery device.

The advanced, ergonomically designed Avamys device has a unique side-actuated button to make it easier to use by either the patient or their carer. The new device delivers a gentle and scent-free mist with a low volume of spray, which means patients are not left with a bitter taste or the effects of drip down the back of the throat. The device has a small nozzle, designed to increase comfort and fit more easily into the nose and a viewing window allows patients to see how much medicine is left in the device.

Avamys® was first granted approval for use in the US by the FDA in April, 2007 under the trade name Veramyst™.