Firebrick Pharma Locks in Canadian Patent on Nasodine as COVID Prevention Tool to 2040
Firebrick Pharma’s Nasodine secures second Canadian patent, covering COVID-19 viral shedding
Firebrick Pharma (ASX: FRE) has had a second patent for its Nasodine product accepted in Canada, this time covering the use of Nasodine Nasal Spray and other intranasal preparations in reducing viral load and shedding associated with SARS-CoV-2. The new protection is separate and distinct from the company’s first Canadian patent, which related to use in the Common Cold. The patent expires in 2040.
When big ASX news breaks, our subscribers know first
What the new patent covers and why it matters
The accepted patent, titled “Prevention of infection by highly pathogenic viruses using topical application of povidone-iodine on mucous membranes,” protects Nasodine Nasal Spray and other intranasal povidone-iodine (PVP-I) preparations as a method of reducing SARS-CoV-2 viral load in the nasal passage.
Granted claims also extend to pre-exposure prophylaxis, meaning preventative use prior to potential exposure to SARS-CoV-2. This broadens the product’s commercial applicability beyond treatment into active prevention, a meaningful distinction for both regulatory positioning and market reach.
Firebrick’s growing international patent estate
The same patent has been accepted and/or granted across a range of jurisdictions, building what the company describes as a strengthening intellectual property position to support its commercialisation strategy:
- Canada
- United States
- Europe
- Australia
- Multiple other countries
Each additional jurisdiction reinforces Firebrick’s ability to protect its Nasodine franchise as it pursues market expansion across regions with differing regulatory and competitive environments.
The announcement was authorised for release by Dr Peter Molloy, Executive Chairman of Firebrick Pharma Limited. No additional direct commentary from Dr Molloy was included in the announcement beyond the authorisation.
Understanding PVP-I and nasal spray as an antiviral tool
Povidone-iodine (PVP-I) is an antiseptic compound with a long-established history in medical and clinical settings. When formulated for nasal application, it acts on the mucous membranes lining the nasal passage, the primary entry point for many respiratory viruses including SARS-CoV-2.
Viral shedding refers to the process by which an infected person releases virus particles from their body, in this case through the nasal passage, making transmission to others more likely. Reducing viral load at this site may help limit both the severity of infection in the individual and the potential spread to those around them.
Pre-exposure prophylaxis refers to the use of a treatment or product before potential exposure to a pathogen, rather than after infection has occurred. In the context of this patent, it means Nasodine Nasal Spray may be used as a preventative measure before likely contact with SARS-CoV-2. For investors, this significantly expands the addressable use case beyond treatment into an ongoing preventative category, which typically supports broader and more frequent product adoption.
The next major ASX story will hit our subscribers first
Nasodine’s commercial footprint and the road ahead
Firebrick’s Nasodine Nasal Spray is already present across multiple markets, with further expansion underway. The company’s current and pipeline market presence includes:
- United States
- Singapore
- Fiji & South Pacific
- Indonesia (recently approved for marketing)
- Philippines (approval being pursued)
- Other markets (in pursuit)
Nasodine Throat Spray is available as a follow-on product in Singapore and Fiji, marking the beginning of a broader product range. Firebrick has announced plans for up to four products in the Nasodine range and expansion of sales to up to 10 markets over three years.
The second Canadian patent, covering SARS-CoV-2 viral shedding and pre-exposure prophylaxis through to 2040, adds another layer of intellectual property protection to underpin this commercial runway as the company pursues regulatory approvals and distribution partnerships across new territories.
Don’t Miss the Next Healthcare Breakthrough
Big News Blast delivers FREE breaking ASX healthcare news directly to your inbox within minutes of release, with in-depth analysis already done. Over 20,000+ subscribers rely on it to stay ahead of market-moving announcements. Click the “Free Alerts” button at Big News Blast to make sure the next major healthcare development lands in your inbox first.