Ratiopharm UK has announced the launch of Algopain-Eze Dissolvable Mouth Ulcer Patch and Algopain-Eze Dissolving Cold Sore Patch.

Both products come in the form of a cellulose-based, dissolvable film patch that can be used to cover and treat the affected area.

Algopain-Eze Dissolvable Mouth Ulcer Patch sticks to mouth ulcers on application and acts as a barrier between the ulcer and bacteria, which prevents infection, according to the company.

Algopain-Eze Dissolving Cold Sore Patch sticks to cold sores after it is made wet and delivers zinc sulphate directly onto the sore, says Ratiopharm UK.

Prices: £8.25 (Algopain-Eze Dissolvable Mouth Ulcer Patch); £8.99 (Algopain-Eze Dissolving Cold Sore Patch)

Pip codes: 354-3410; 354-3402

Ratiopharm UK

Tel: 02392 386330

www.algopaineze.co.uk

Market focus

• The mouth ulcer market is worth £23.6 million a year (IRI, 52 weeks to Nov 28, 2009).

• 50 per cent of people with mouth ulcers do not treat them.

• Mouth ulcers recur in 20 per cent of sufferers.

Brand values

Ratiopharm UK head of OTC Robert Hall (pictured, right) explains the retail opportunities for Algopain-Eze Dissolving Cold Sore Patch.

How big is the cold sore market?

Over one in five people suffers from cold sores in the UK and 80 per cent carry the virus that causes them. Once people have the virus it does not go away. The cold sore market is worth £27.8 million,* but there is room for growth.

What is available on the market already?

Since the launch of aciclovir as a P medicine, creams have dominated the market and recently patches have been launched. However, some sufferers have experienced problems with adhesive patches sticking to the sore, which is painful.

Who can pharmacists target Algopain-Eze at?

This product uses an innovative technology that allows the patch to stick to your lip without adhesive. Customers who have had problems with patches in the past, because they are unsightly or painful, will like this product as it is soothing and you can put make-up over it. Some customers may also have problems with creams that have to be used at the first sign of a tingle or they don’t work. These patches can be put on at any time.

What kind of profits can pharmacists expect?

Independent pharmacies supplied via AAH and Phoenix can sell the product at an introductory launch price of £7.99, which will give them a 45 per cent profit boost initially.

*IRI, 52 weeks to Nov 28, 2009