Regent launches deproteinised NR latex glove

By Liz White, ERJ staff

London-A new surgical glove, launched in London 23 May is, “the latex glove that can help reduce the risk of latex allergy,” according to manufacturer Regent Medical. Biogel Eclipse is the “first powder-free, de-proteinised natural rubber latex (DPNRL) surgical glove, said Regent Medical, in its launch publicity.

DPNRL is natural rubber latex which has had the protein removed in a patented enzyme-based process. This helps “reduce the risk of latex allergy,” claims Regent, adding that the gloves have very low levels of water-extractable rubber proteins.

The medical glove supplier described the development as a “significant step forward in surgical glove technology,” which will “change the way people think about the issues surrounding latex gloves.” Such a change is overdue in the UK, where health trusts have been moving away from buying NR latex examination gloves, following advice by the Health and Safety Executive on glove choice and use.

In a UK trial, Regent said, 80 percent of users preferred Biogel Eclipse over their current glove. Another important feature of the new Eclipse product is that it is “less expensive than most non-latex gloves,” the manufacturer added.