ALLERGICA, LRRI TO DEVELOP INHALEABLE ANTIHISTAMINE

Israel-based Allergica has entered into an agreement with the Lovelace Respiratory Research Institute (LRRI) to develop an inhaleable version of its antihistamine drug, the company reported. Preclinical and human trials of the drug -- which has not yet been named -- will take place within the next 18 months.

The drug is intended for local administration for blocking initial allergic reactions and the excretion of allergy-causing substances, such as histamines, from mast cells found in the pulmonary, skin and digestive systems.