Starpharma secures European and UK approval of Viraleze

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Starpharma (ASX:SPL) says it has received confirmation that the VIRALEZE antiviral nasal spray has been successfully registered for sale in Europe and the UK.

VIRALEZE is an antiviral nasal spray that contains SPL7013 (astodrimer sodium). The company said this has been shown in laboratory studies to inactivate a broad spectrum of respiratory viruses, including >99.9 per cent of coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.

Starpharma said SPL7013 has also been shown to have activity against other important respiratory viruses including influenza, respiratory syncytial (RSV) and other cold-causing coronaviruses in laboratory studies. VIRALEZE can be stored at room temperature and does not require cold storage or specialised transportation.

The company said the European launch is on track and the product is expected to be available for sale online, direct to European and UK consumers next month.

It said the regulatory dossier and European registration will be used as the basis for obtaining further marketing approvals for the product as soon as practicable in other countries, including in Australia.

Dr Jackie Fairley, CEO of Starpharma, said, “Starpharma is pleased to have successfully developed a product that has the potential to assist with the fight against the global COVID-19 pandemic. We are delighted to have completed registration of VIRALEZE in the UK and Europe ahead of our original schedule and acknowledge the support of local and international specialist laboratories who have assisted Starpharma with the development of VIRALEZE.

"We have already undertaken substantial launch preparations, including manufacturing in Europe, to ensure VIRALEZE is available to consumers and businesses as early as possible. Starpharma is focussed on making the product as widely available as possible, with further registrations and roll-out planned.

“We know from consumer research conducted with the Boston Consulting Group, that VIRALEZE has strong appeal for European consumers across all age groups. The spray is easy to use and convenient – and works rapidly, without being absorbed into the bloodstream. If you are about to walk into the supermarket, you would use it. The same is true for public transport, elevators, planes, bars and restaurants,” added Dr Fairley.