Upsher-Smith Teams Up With the National Eczema Association to Take Action During Eczema Awareness Month

MAPLE GROVE, Minn., Sept. 26, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Upsher-Smith Laboratories, Inc. is proud to support the National Eczema Association (NEA) during Eczema Awareness Month to raise awareness about this disease and the resources available to help those who suffer from eczema.  For eligible patients, Upsher-Smith offers a "pay no more than $15" coupon for Trianex^™ 0.05% (Triamcinolone Acetonide Ointment), a prescription corticosteroid with the feel of a cream and strength of an ointment indicated for the relief of itching and inflammation caused by certain skin conditions that respond to treatment with corticosteroids.  The coupon for Trianex^™ can be accessed online at http://www.trianex-usl.com/patients/coupon-nea.*

"One of our goals is to educate patients about skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema and available treatment options that can help manage challenges associated with these conditions," said Glenn MacEachern, Director – Product Marketing, Upsher-Smith Laboratories, Inc.  "We are proud to partner with the National Eczema Association to help the millions of Americans who suffer from corticosteroid responsive dermatoses like eczema."

"The National Eczema Association helps educate the American public about resources available to manage eczema," said Julie Block, NEA Chief Executive Officer.  "We appreciate Upsher-Smith's support in helping us bring attention to this disease and available treatment options.  If you or someone you know suffer from eczema, visit our website at http://www.nationaleczema.org/ for a wealth of information."

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.(1)  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.(2)  According to the American Academy of Dermatology, 10 to 20 percent of children and one to three percent of adults develop atopic dermatitis (eczema).(3)

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,(4) 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.(5) 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.

About Upsher-Smith

Upsher-Smith Laboratories, Inc. is a rapidly growing pharmaceutical company that manufactures, distributes, and markets both prescription and consumer products.  Privately held since 1919, the company strives to recognize the unmet healthcare needs of its customers.  Upsher-Smith prides itself on providing safe, effective, and economical therapies to the ever-changing healthcare environment.  For additional information, visit 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.

*Limitations may apply.  See http://www.trianex-usl.com/patients/coupon-nea/ for complete coupon details.

References

1. National Eczema Association. Eczema Quick Fact Sheet, www.nationaleczema.org/living/eczema_quick_fact_sheet.php, and http://www.nationaleczema.org/living/all_about_atopic_dermatits.php.
2. Atopic eczema. Pub Med Health. http://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001856/
3. American Academy of Dermatology Web page on Eczema/Atopic Dermatitis. Accessed Feb. 7, 2011: http://www.aad.org/public/publications/pamphlets/skin_eczema.html
4. IMS TRx data, 2010.
5. Ference JD, Last AR. Choosing topical corticosteroids. Am Fam Physician. 2009;79(2):135-140.

SOURCE Upsher-Smith Laboratories, Inc.