DUBLIN, Ireland — Allergan plc is set to release Rhofade oxymetazoline hydrochloride cream 1%, a topical medication to help treat rosacea.

Indicated for persistent facial erythema, or redness, associated with rosacea in adults, Rhofade adds brings a once-daily solution to the few alternatives available for the treatment of this rosacea symptom, Allergan said.

Plans call for Rhofade, which has received approval from the Food and Drug Administration, to become available for commercial supply beginning in May 2017.

“We know persistent facial erythema associated with rosacea is a challenge for patients and physicians, and having options can help in treating the disease,” stated David Nicholson, chief research and development officer at Allergan. “Rhofade is the first and only alpha1A adrenoceptor agonist approved for persistent facial erythema associated with rosacea in adults. The FDA approval of Rhofade RHOFADE represents a new prescription treatment that can effectively help physicians and their patients manage this condition.”

Persistent facial redness is cited as the most common sign of rosacea and may resemble a flushing or sunburn that does not go away, Allergan reported. Typical triggers include sun exposure, stress, weather, food, exercise and/or products. The National Rosacea Society estimates that about 16 million Americans are affected by rosacea.

“Historically, there haven’t been many options available to help physicians address persistent facial erythema and often we ended up just helping our patients identify and manage triggers, which can lead to frustration for both the doctor and patient,” according to Dr. Robert Weiss, clinical trial investigator and director of the Maryland Laser, Skin & Vein Institute. “With the approval of Rhofade, doctors will now be able to provide their patients with an effective once-daily treatment option to help manage this condition.”