Hartig Drug Company has announced the addition of Nefense® nasal care products at select locations in Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin, providing customers with new drug-free options for daily nasal hygiene. The move brings together two Dubuque-rooted companies, combining Hartig Drug's long-standing community presence with Nefense's clinically backed nasal wellness solutions.
Developed by Richard Downs, DDS, a Dubuque-based dental professional with over four decades of expertise in oral health, breathing, and airway function, Nefense offers a range of products that leverage hypochlorous acid (HOCl) and xylitol. HOCl is a naturally occurring molecule produced by white blood cells as part of the body's immune response, and it has been studied for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Published randomized clinical research has evaluated low-concentration HOCl nasal irrigation in people with chronic sinonasal symptoms and allergic rhinitis, although these studies were not specific to Nefense-branded products.
Charlie Hartig, CEO of Hartig Drug Company, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration: "We are excited to offer Nefense nasal solutions at Hartig drug stores. There is real meaning in this too: a Dubuque developed product line now on Hartig shelves, reaching the communities we serve together." The Nefense products now available include Hyponasal, an HOCl nasal spray for adults designed to rinse away dust, pollen, and airborne particles; Hyponasal Junior, a gentler formulation for children; Hypobaby, an ultra-gentle spray for infants and young children; and Xyloclean, a xylitol-based moisturizing spray suitable for dry indoor conditions and travel.
F. Hunter Fuerste, MD, a board-certified ophthalmologist in Dubuque, commented on the potential of HOCl: "I believe hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is still in its infancy in terms of its role in medicine, as more applications continue to be discovered. It is a gentle, nontoxic, naturally occurring molecule produced by white blood cells that has both anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Today, HOCl is being used in areas including skincare, wound care, eyelid hygiene for blepharitis, and oral rinses."
This addition aligns with Hartig Drug's commitment to offering health, wellness, and everyday products, including those developed by local businesses. By stocking Nefense, the pharmacy chain is providing an alternative to medicated decongestants and catering to diverse age groups with age-specific nasal care options. The availability of these products underscores a shared heritage of innovation and community service between the two Dubuque companies.
Nefense products are now available at participating Hartig Drug locations. Customers can visit hartigdrug.com/stores to find a nearby store and confirm product availability. For more information about Nefense and its product line, visit nefense.com.
