BUSINESS WIRE
Patients Will Receive Information about How to Treat Allergy Symptoms Quickly and Effectively
FORT WORTH, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Mar. 27, 2009--
Alcon
(NYSE: ACL) and the Asthma
and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) have joined forces to
spread the word about seasonal allergies and treatment through media
outlets today. As the spring allergy season comes into full force, it is
important for allergy sufferers to understand their treatment options. Seasonal
allergies affect about 40 to 50 million people in the United States
alone and are one of the top causes of absenteeism from work and school.
"There are some new concepts and new treatments for the springtime
problems people are already experiencing," said Bobby Lanier, M.D. and
clinical professor at the University of North Texas Health Science
Center. "Doctors have just completed their annual conference on allergy
and are eager to join our friends at AAFA and communicate about these
advances."
In media interviews today, Dr. Lanier and other allergy experts will
speak about the causes of seasonal allergies and what people can do in
their everyday lives to relieve symptoms. They will also discuss
prescription treatment options including Alcon’s PATADAY™
ophthalmic solution and PATANASE®
nasal spray, two products that provide fast relief of allergies by going
directly to where the symptoms occur. PATADAY™ solution is the only
once-a-day medication indicated for the relief of itchy allergy
eyes. PATANASE® nasal spray is steroid-free and the only
prescription nasal
spray on the market approved by the FDA to begin relieving symptoms
in as fast as 30 minutes. For more information, visit www.pataday.com
or www.patanase.com.
About Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis
Seasonal allergic rhinitis, also known as “hay fever,” refers to an
allergic complex of symptoms caused by sensitivity to seasonal pollens.
Symptoms may include congestion, sneezing, itchy nose, runny nose,
watery eyes and itchy eyes. Studies indicate that allergies affect an
estimated 40 to 50 million people in the United States. Allergies are
not only bothersome, but have been linked to a variety of common and
serious chronic respiratory illnesses, such as sinusitis and asthma. In
addition, allergy is one of the most common causes of absenteeism from
both work and school, accounting for over $700 million in lost
productivity and $3.5 billion in annual direct medical costs.
About Alcon
Alcon, Inc. is the world’s leading eye
care company, with sales of approximately $6.3 billion in 2008.
Alcon, which has been dedicated to the ophthalmic industry for 60 years,
researches, develops, manufactures and markets pharmaceuticals, surgical
equipment and devices, contact lens care solutions and other vision care
products that treat diseases, disorders and other conditions of the eye.
Alcon’s majority shareholder is Nestlé, S.A., the world’s largest food
company. For more information on Alcon, Inc., visit the Company’s web
site at www.alcon.com.