Market study details Nuvo's experimental therapy for refractory allergic rhinitis

Nuvo Research’s market study of its experimental immunotherapy treatment for refractory allergic rhinitis forecast a 10% to 15% capture of the US market for the condition, according to a press release.

“The market study confirms the significant US market opportunity for WF10 to treat refractory allergic rhinitis,” Henrich Guntermann, MD, MSc, president of Nuvo’s Europe & Immunology Group, said in the release. “Our clinical and case study data suggests that WF10 … provides symptomatic relief from multiple airborne allergens for up to 2 years after only 5 days of treatment.”

WF10, a solution containing stabilized chlorite ions, targets the macrophage to regulate normal immune function, according to the release. It currently is approved only in Thailand as an infusion therapy under the name Immunokine for treating post-radiation-therapy syndrome.

The market study estimated annual US sales of $700 million to $1.1 billion.

Nuvo is conducting a 16-week phase 2 trial of 183 patients in Germany to assess the efficacy, safety and tolerability “of a regimen of five infusions of either WF10 or its main constituents (sodium chlorite or sodium chlorate) relative to saline control in allergic rhinitis patients.” The confirmation trial will measure total nasal symptom score and secondary endpoints. Top-line results are expected in the first quarter of 2015, the release said.

The market study conducted by Psscion Lifesciences Consulting included interviews with patients with refractory allergic rhinitis, allergists and immunologists, and insurance representatives. Findings included:

The one-dosing regimen and favorable safety profile in completed proof-of-concept study and case studies showed efficacy and therapeutic effect were favored by physicians.
WF10 could possibly address unmet needs in the treatment of refractory allergic rhinitis, according to patients and physicians.
WF10 could be an alternative to subcutaneous immunotherapy.
Payers found it unlikely to face significant barriers to coverage.