Cipla Health develops povidone iodine-based anti-viral nasal spray effective against coronavirus

Naselin by Cipla Health has launched first-of-its-kind Naselin anti-viral nasal spray with povidone iodine to protect against coronavirus and respiratory tract infections. Research shows that povidone iodine can act as the first line of defence against the SARS-CoV-2 virus. With powerful anti-viral properties, the spray is suitable for wide use, especially by the high-risk category of essential service workers, a statement from Cipla said.

Povidone iodine is a trusted molecule with anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties, which helps to protect from viruses and other germs that cause common upper respiratory tract illnesses like cold, sinusitis or flu. Over the years, povidone iodine has been widely used in products such as gargle solution, ointments and creams. However, its usage in a nasal spray format is a disruptive innovation by Cipla Health to ensure potential insulation at grass-root stages of infection, the statement added.

It also said that the spray acts by killing the disease-causing viruses and bacteria in the nose. Multiple studies have shown that cells lining the nose are a key entry point for SARS-CoV-2. The use of topical anti-viral drugs at the nasal region is essential for preventive care. Through the convenient packaging of Naselin anti-viral nasal spray, povidone iodine offers an easy and powerful means of protection against COVID.

With normalcy returning, health authorities are now emphasising on following all safety protocols when stepping out of the house. This has spiked the demand for relevant healthcare products; nasal care being one of them. To cater to this demand, Cipla health’s Naselin anti-viral nasal spray is designed as an everyday aid, the statement notified.

The Naselin anti-viral spray ensures its relevance beyond the current COVID context to any other respiratory tract discomfort. The 15ml spray bottle is priced at Rs 99 and is available across 700 Apollo and Medplus pharmacies in Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana as well as on e-commerce platforms such as 1mg and Pharmeasy.

Commenting on the launch of the landmark product, Shivam Puri, CEO, Cipla Health, said, “At Cipla Health, we have always endeavoured to bring products that can make healthcare easy and affordable. With a strong commitment to Research & Development, our products have demonstrated effectiveness against a host of health conditions to help people with speedy recovery. In line with this commitment, we are delighted to bring to our consumers one of the most innovative and effective product formulations for preventive care against coronavirus. Adding Naselin anti-viral nasal spray to our regular routine, along with wearing mask, washing hands and maintaining social distance, can definitely help us to fight this pandemic together.”