Glenmark, SaNOtize to commercialise COVID-19 nasal spray in Asia

India-based Glenmark Pharmaceuticals and Canadian biotech firm SaNOtize Research & Development Corp have announced an exclusive long term strategic partnership to manufacture, market and distribute its breakthrough Nitric Oxide Nasal Spray (NONS) for COVID-19 treatment in India and other Asian markets including Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Nepal, Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, TimorLeste and Vietnam. Available in the form of a simple nasal spray, it is designed to kill the virus in the upper airways, preventing it from incubating and spreading to the lungs. It is based on nitric oxide (NO), a natural nano-molecule with proven anti-microbial properties, and which has a direct effect on SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19. In early July 2021, Glenmark presented a proposal to the Indian government for emergency approval for the import and marketing of nasal spray. The committee has recommended a Phase III clinical trial to be conducted in Indian patients in the weeks to follow. The Phase III clinical trial for NONS is expected to be completed, followed by a commercial launch under the brand name FabiSpray in India, by the fourth quarter of the calendar year 2021.