A MEDICAL firm has developed a product aimed at easing cancer patients’ suffering.

Quantum Pharma has created a spray to relieve treatment side effects.

Bosses say the medication prevents and manages dermatitis caused by radiation, which can lead to skin inflammation and peeling.

The product, known as Mucodis Dermal Spray, has been overseen by Quantum’s Colonis division, which develops medicines.

It comes after the company released a Mucodis-branded mouthwash to alleviate sores caused by chemotherapy and radiation and a spray to counter mouth inflammation.

Officials say the range is intrinsic to the NHS’ response to cancer treatment, adding Colonis has an exclusive five-year distribution licence with an option to extend the agreement.

Andrew Scaife, Quantum chief executive, said more than 350,000 patients in the UK are diagnosed with cancer every year, with many suffering painful consequences of their therapy.

He also said the vast majority receiving radiotherapy experience some kind of skin reaction.

However, he said Mucodis was well placed to serve their needs.

He said: “Radiodermatitis is unpleasant and painful and we are delighted to launch the spray to help treat symptoms.

“There is a clear unmet need for this type of relief and we are confident our products will have a significant effect on improving quality of life.

“We are excited by the potential the Mucodis range offers the NHS and patients.”

Earlier this year, Quantum, which employs about 250 people at its factory in Burnopfield, near Stanley, County Durham, revealed cancer work would form a crucial part of its future.

Speaking after annual results showed revenue was 13 per cent better off at £70m and adjusted pre-tax profit 75 per cent higher at £10m, Mr Scaife added: “The response to Mucodis from clinical teams at hospitals has been extremely positive.

“We are gaining permission in hospitals for the product to be purchased for use and by the end of the summer expect to have gained permissions in hospitals covering 35 per cent of patients diagnosed with cancer each year.”

Quantum supplies medicines to respond to unique prescriptions, with staff able to alter a drug’s potency, assess ingredients to counter allergies and change distribution from tablet to liquid form.

It has a vast programme of more than 30,000 products, which include methadone reefers and treatments aimed at remedying vitamin deficiencies.