Just in time for hay fever season, the FDA has approved Alcon's olopatadine hydrochloride (Patanase) spray for seasonal allergic rhinitis in patients 12 years of age and older. Multiple clinical trials demonstrated its safety and efficacy of action, and environmental tests on rhinitis patients showed a 30-minute onset time (with two sprays per nostril, twice daily) versus placebo. Sales will begin this May.

Health Care Business Daily. "Alcon's nasal spray approved for seasonal allergic rhinitis." 2008. http:// http://www.verusmed.com/articles/view/53723/?referer=/search/results (21 Apr. 2008).