Eisai Co., Ltd. announced today the launch of its new Rx-to-OTC switch product Higuard for allergic-related rhinitis and skin problems on November 1, 2006.

Higuard is the first Rx-to-OTC switch product of azelastine hydrochloride, an anti-allergy compound originally approved for prescription use. The product is also effective in alleviating allergyc symptoms including rhinitis caused by pollens or house dusts and skin problems such as utricaria and eczema.

The active ingredient of Higuard azelastine hydrochloride exhibits anti-allergic effects by inhibiting and releasing leukotriens and histamine that cause allergy, relieving allergic symptoms including rhinitis (sneezing, runny and stuffy nose) and skin problems (urticaria, eczema, etc). It is recommended that patients with seasonal allergic diseases be started on Higuard immediately before the beginning of the season to maximize the effect.

According to the consumer survey* conducted by Eisai, more than 50 percent of the people who suffer from pollen allergy answered that they constantly feel itching of skin, and 70 percent said that they experience allergic problems all year. Higuard is expected to serve the needs of such people acting on both rhinitis and skin problems.

Eisai works to further develop the consumer health market by positioning the new Rx-to-OTC switch product Higuard as all-season allergic product while contributing to increasing benefits to patients and their families.