Vienna-based biotech company Marinomed Biotechnologie's antiviral nasal spray, which is based on proprietary technology platform Mavirex, has secured the approval in Canada as a 'natural health product'.
The approval of the spray followed the validation of convincing pre-clinical and clinical data on the safety and effectiveness of the drug.
It is said to reduce the reproduction and spread of viruses on the nasal mucosa.
The product, which is based on Carragelose, a natural substance extracted from red algae, is now approved for the prevention and treatment of the common cold in 38 countries throughout the world.
Marinomed CEO Dr. Andreas Grassauer said: "Colds, coughs and hoarseness can be caused by a multitude of respiratory viruses. It is virtually impossible to diagnose the precise viral strain responsible in each case. However, this is not necessary for treatment with the Marinomed nasal spray. It is effective against numerous viral strains simultaneously. This explains the sales success of the spray."
