Starpharma to launch anti-COVID nasal spray with major UK pharmacy chain

Pharmaceuticals manufacturer Starpharma (ASX: SPL) will commence the rollout of its COVID-killing nasal spray in the UK after signing a deal with a major pharmacy chain.

The group's antiviral nasal spray called VIRALEZE will be stocked by LloydsPharmacy, a pharmacy chain in the UK with around 1,400 stores across the country.

It will first be made available at LloydPharmacy's online store next week and is expected to be instore in April.

"We are excited that VIRALEZE will be available from next week in the second largest pharmacy chain in the UK," Starpharma CEO Dr Jackie Fairley said.

"The LloydsPharmacy team shares Starpharma's enthusiasm and commitment to bring VIRALEZE antiviral nasal spray to UK consumers as they emerge from their latest lockdown.

"LloydsPharmacy represents an ideal partner for this product."

Developed by Starpharma and registered for sale in the UK and Europe, the nasal spray has been proven in laboratory studies to inactivate respiratory viruses, including COVID-19.

The spray binds to and inactivates a broad spectrum of respiratory viruses, meaning they are blocked from attaching to cells inside the nose, and works both before and after exposure to viruses.

LloydsPharmacy head of e-commerce John Acland says the product will give customers peace of mind as the UK emerges from an extended period of lockdown.

"[VIRALEZE] is a highly innovative product with compelling customer benefits and is well supported by an impressive body of quality science and research," says Acland.

"We hope VIRALEZE will bring LloydsPharmacy customers added peace of mind and protection as we enter the next chapter of the pandemic and re-emerge back into work, school and social settings."

Shares in SPL are down 1.73 per cent to $1.99 per share at 10.27am AEDT.

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