Upsher-Smith Joins The National Eczema Association To Take Action During Eczema Awareness Month

MAPLE GROVE, Minn., Sept. 24, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Upsher-Smith Laboratories, Inc. is proud to support the National Eczema Association (NEA) during Eczema Awareness Month in October to help generate greater awareness about eczema, its treatments, and resources available to help those who suffer from the disease.  Since topical corticosteroids are one of the most useful medications for treating eczema¹, Upsher-Smith is taking action to help patients by offering the Trianex^® 0.05% (Triamcinolone Acetonide Ointment) Instant Savings Card*- offering as little as a $5 co-pay per prescription for three prescriptions of Trianex^® - making it less expensive than some generic triamcinolones.  Additionally, Upsher-Smith is expanding the Trianex^® sample program where physicians can request free samples and have them sent to their offices by calling 800-654-2299 or visiting http://www.trianex-usl.com. 

Trianex^® is a mid-potency triamcinolone ointment formulated with a unique base that provides the strength of an ointment with the feel of a cream.  It is indicated for the relief of itching and inflammation caused by certain skin conditions that respond to treatment with corticosteroids.  Patients requesting discount cards and physicians requesting free samples can find more information at www.trianex-usl.com.

"We're excited to be teaming up with the National Eczema Association to help the millions of Americans who suffer from corticosteroid responsive dermatoses like eczema," said Glenn MacEachern, Director – Product Marketing, Upsher-Smith Laboratories, Inc.  "We strive to keep patients informed about skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema and available treatment options that can help manage challenges associated with these conditions."

"The National Eczema Association is proud to collaborate with Upsher-Smith, especially during Eczema Awareness Month.  Our goal is to spread information about eczema and its treatments to those who are fighting the disease," said Julie Block, NEA Chief Executive Officer. "We appreciate Upsher-Smith's support in sponsoring our All About Atopic Dermatitis brochure and helping us bring attention to this disease and available treatment options.  To obtain a copy of the brochure and to learn more about eczema and its treatments, visit our website at http://www.nationaleczema.org."

About Eczema
Eczema refers to several non-contagious dermatitis conditions, such as atopic dermatitis and contact dermatitis, that cause itching and redness.  Some blister, weep or peel and some are more severe and long-lasting than others.²  Eczema can occur in people of all ages. In children, eczema often clears beginning around age five to six, but flare-ups can occur.  In adults, it is generally a long-term or recurring condition.³   According to the American Academy of Dermatology, 10 to 20 percent of children and one to three percent of adults develop atopic dermatitis (eczema).⁴

About Trianex^®
In July 2011, Upsher-Smith Laboratories, Inc. launched Trianex^®, a mid-potency prescription topical corticosteroid that offers the feel of a cream with the strength of an ointment. Trianex^® combines triamcinolone, the number one prescribed type of topical corticosteroid,⁵ with a pleasing cream-like base to relieve inflammation and itching in skin conditions that respond to treatment with corticosteroids, such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis (eczema).  Trianex^® is formulated with a proprietary hydrous emulsified base that helps maintain moisture to soften and smooth the skin.  It also provides ointment occlusivity to help enhance corticosteroid absorption, and it does not contain preservatives, which are often found in creams and can cause irritation.¹ Trianex^® offers the only 0.05% mid-potency triamcinolone ointment in convenient packaging, available in 17-gram and 85-gram tubes to allow for prescribing flexibility.

Trianex^® 0.05% (Triamcinolone Acetonide Ointment)is indicated for the relief of itching and inflammation caused by certain skin conditions that respond to treatment with corticosteroids.  It should be used as directed by a physician for the skin condition for which it was prescribed.

Important Safety Information
Systemic absorption of topical corticosteroids has produced a reversible hormone disorder called Cushing's syndrome, hyperglycemia, and glucosuria in some patients, including children.  Children may absorb proportionally larger amounts of topical corticosteroids and thus be more susceptible to systemic toxicity.  Administration of topical corticosteroids to children should be limited to the smallest amount necessary.

The treated skin area should not be bandaged or otherwise covered or wrapped so as to be occlusive, unless directed by the physician.  Do not use tight-fitting diapers or plastic pants on a child being treated in the diaper area, as these garments may constitute occlusive dressings.

Patients should report any signs of local adverse reactions, especially under occlusive dressings.  Local adverse reactions infrequently reported with topical corticosteroids include burning, itching, irritation, inflammation, dryness, infection, excessive hair growth, acne-like lesions, lightened skin color, allergic contact dermatitis, breakdown of the skin, stretch marks, and heat rash.  If irritation develops, topical corticosteroids should be discontinued and appropriate therapy instituted.

Trianex^® is for external use only.  It should not be used in patients with known hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients in Trianex^®.  Avoid contact with eyes.  This safety information is not all-inclusive.  Please see Full Prescribing Information at www.trianex-usl.com or call 800-654-2299 for more information.  You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA.  Visit http://www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Trianex^® is marketed in the U.S. by Upsher-Smith Laboratories, Inc.

About Upsher-Smith
Upsher-Smith Laboratories, Inc. is a privately held, U.S.-based company devoted to improving health and advancing wellness since 1919.  Upsher-Smith demonstrates its commitment to meeting the healthcare needs of its customers by developing, producing and marketing consumer and prescription products.  In addition to its strong heritage in generics, Upsher-Smith's branded businesses focus on women's health, dermatology and CNS therapeutic areas.  For additional information, visit http://www.upsher-smith.com.

About Upsher-Smith's History in Skincare
Upsher-Smith has served the skincare needs of consumers for more than 14 years with its AmLactin^® family of cosmetic moisturizers, available without a prescription for rough, dry skin.

About the National Eczema Association
The National Eczema Association, founded in 1988, is a not-for-profit organization that provides everyday help through research, support, and awareness programs dedicated to improving the health and quality of life of individuals with eczema and sensitive skin. For more information on eczema, eczema quality of life issues, or the National Eczema Association (NEA), please contact NEA at 800-818-7546, [email protected] or http://www.nationaleczema.org.

*Some limitations apply. The program expires on December 31, 2012. Visit http://www.trianex-usl.com for additional details.

References

1. Ference JD, Last AR. Choosing topical corticosteroids. Am Fam Physician. 2009;79(2):135-140.
2. National Eczema Association. Eczema Quick Fact Sheet, 
    http://www.nationaleczema.org/living/eczema_quick_fact_sheet.php, and
    http://www.nationaleczema.org/living/all_about_atopic_dermatits.php. 
3. Atopic eczema. Pub Med Health. http://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001856/
4. American Academy of Dermatology Web page on Eczema/Atopic Dermatitis.  Accessed August 30, 2011: http://www.aad.org/skin-conditions/dermatology-a-to-z/atopic-dermatitis/who-gets-causes
5. IMS TRx data, 2011.

SOURCE Upsher-Smith Laboratories, Inc.