WHILE OTHER pharma companies focus on improving sales and productivity to battle lackluster stock performance, Schering-Plough Corp. (SGP) is struggling with manufacturing issues that could impact earnings and growth for several quarters to come. With the launch of Clarinex, a key component in maintaining the company's powerhouse allergy franchise hanging in the balance, SGP has cautioned that the deficiencies will take time to resolve. To get back on track, SGP is directing attention to new and anticipated product launches.
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Desloratadine is an oral, long-acting antihistamine that is similar chemically to loratadine (Claritin). It is used to treat the symptoms caused by histamine. Histamine is a chemical that is responsible for many of the signs and symptoms of allergic reactions, for example, swelling of the lining of the nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes. Histamine is released from histamine-storing cells (mast cells) and then attaches to other cells that have receptors for histamine. The attachment of the histamine to the receptors causes the cell to be "activated," releasing other chemicals which produce the effects that we associate with allergy.
Clarinex is a medication which can be taken year-round by those who suffer from allergies. It is also effective at treating those who suffer from hives or rashes. The active ingredient in this medication is desloratadine, which is an antihistamine. This blocks the immune system's production of the natural chemical histamine, which is produced when the body becomes sensitive to something.
|
