Oralair impresses in pediatric allergy study

French drug developer Stallergenes has reported positive results in a pediatric study of its allergy desensitisation product, Oralair Grasses. The drug, which is a sublingual medication, reduced symptoms in 280 children suffering from allergic rhinoconjunctivitis to a level comparable with that achieved in earlier adult studies.

Stallergenes said that German regulators are expected to approve Oralair in the near future and added that, based on the reported data, it intends to seek clearance for use of the drug in children in due course. The Parisian company also said it has received a favorable reception from the US Food and Drug Administration regarding Phase III trials, and added that it is in talks with potential US development partners.

Observers said that recent speculation that major Stallergenes shareholder Wendel may sell its 47% stake increases the likelihood that any US deal will end in takeover.