Aralez Pharmaceuticals Inc. announced the commercial launch of Blexten in Canada for the treatment of seasonal allergic rhinitis and chronic spontaneous urticaria.

The drug will be distributed by Tribute Pharmaceuticals Canada Inc., an Aralez subsidiary, and will have eight years of market exclusivity.

According to Aralez, the Canadian antihistamine market is currently valued at approximately C$120 million per year.

Chronic spontaneous urticaria is a disabling skin condition that causes red, swollen, itchy and painful hives. Allergic rhinitis occurs when the immune system overreacts to particles in the air.