Restore Health pharmacist develops allergy-relieving toothpaste

MADISON, Wis. — Shara Rudner, director, clinical trials group for Restore Health, was part of a research collaboration that developed a new delivery system that could help millions of people who suffer from seasonal allergies. 

 

William Reisacher from Weill Cornell Medical College and research colleagues teamed up with Rudner to study a novel method of delivering allergenic extracts using a compounded toothpaste vehicle. Research results were featured in the July/August 2014 International Journal of Pharmaceutical Compounding.

 

"We know that 20% to 40% of the U.S. population suffers from allergic rhinitis," Rudner said. "It is important for people living with allergies to work with their physician to develop an appropriate allergy treatment plan that will effectively reduce their symptoms. This research shows that using a toothpaste delivery system to treat patients with allergic rhinitis is very promising."

 

 

"This new delivery system for millions who suffer from AR could give physicians another tool to help their patients find relief and help the millions of people who suffer from seasonal allergies," said Matt Wanderer, CEO of Restore Health. 

 

"An important part of Shara's contribution to Restore is the forward-looking research and development of innovative approaches to patient care, including novel drug delivery systems such as toothpaste for agents of immunotherapy," said Murray Firestone, president of Restore Health. "It's truly creative to use an activity in which patients already engage, brushing their teeth, to support adherence with their drug regimen; the definition of a disruptive technology.  Kudos to her and her research colleagues."

 

Reisacher holds equity in Allovate, the company that developed a toothpaste vehicle for immunotherapy delivery, and additionally serves as an unpaid consultant to the company.