Chattem to roll out new allergy medicine

February 1, 2017 at 11:17 a.m. | Updated February 1, 2017 at 11:17 a.m.

by Mike Pare

This image provided by Sanofi and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals on Friday, July 24, 2015 shows packaging for the drug Praluent. The Food and Drug Administration on Friday approved this first-of-a-kind medication that lowers artery-clogging cholesterol more than older drugs that have been prescribed for decades. But the drug's high price tag - $14,600 per year - is certain to escalate debate about the cost of breakthrough drugs and who should take them. (Sanofi and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals via AP)
This image provided by Sanofi and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals on Friday, July 24, 2015 shows packaging for the drug Praluent. The Food and Drug Administration on Friday approved this first-of-a-kind medication that lowers artery-clogging cholesterol more than older drugs that have been prescribed for decades. But the drug's high price tag - $14,600 per year - is certain to escalate debate about the cost of breakthrough drugs and who should take them. (Sanofi and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals via AP)

Chattem parent company Sanofi announced today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved a new over-the-counter allergy medicine called Xyzal Allergy 24HR.

Robert Long, Chattanooga-based Chattem's chief executive and head of North America consumer health care for Sanofi, said FDA approval of Xyzal builds on its heritage of successful prescription to over-the-counter switches.

Long said in a statement that Xyzal "adds another trusted option to our existing portfolio of OTC allergy medications."

Sanofi said Xyzal is an oral antihistamine with a proven 24-hour effect. Two formulations of Xyzal are now approved for over the counter use – 5 mg tablets for ages 6 years and older, as well as 0.5 mg/mL oral solution for ages 2 years and older, the company said.

In 2011, Chattem carried out what was then called the biggest product launch in its 130-year history when it took allergy prescription medicine Allegra to over-the-counter status.

Xyzal Allergy 24 HR is expected to be rolled out in the spring.

See more in Thursday's Times Free Press.

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