Cosmo Pharmaceuticals and Glenmark Pharmaceuticals announced today that the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has approved Winlevi® (clascoterone cream 1%) for treating acne vulgaris in patients aged 12 years and older. This approval marks the first novel topical acne treatment mechanism introduced in four decades.
Novel Mechanism of Action
Winlevi® represents a breakthrough in acne treatment as the first commercially available topical androgen receptor inhibitor. The medication works by specifically targeting androgen receptors in sebaceous glands, helping to reduce sebum production without causing systemic anti-androgen effects. This unique mechanism makes it suitable for both male and female patients.
Clinical Evidence and Efficacy
Two identical phase III clinical trials validated the efficacy of Winlevi®. The studies showed that twice-daily application of clascoterone cream 1% over 12 weeks demonstrated superior results compared to vehicle cream in multiple measures:
- Achievement of Investigator's Global Assessment (IGA) success
- Reduction in non-inflammatory lesion count (NILC)
- Decrease in inflammatory lesion count (ILC)
The treatment was generally well-tolerated across the study population, establishing a favorable safety profile.
Market Impact and Distribution
The approval comes as part of a September 2023 agreement between Cosmo Pharmaceuticals and Glenmark, where Glenmark obtained distribution rights for Europe and South Africa. This collaboration aims to address a significant medical need, as acne vulgaris affects over 90% of the global population at some point in their lives.
Giovanni Di Napoli, Chief Executive Officer of Cosmo, emphasized the significance of this approval: "We are thrilled that Winlevi® has been approved for the UK market, bringing an innovative approach to acne treatment. This milestone underscores our commitment to providing patients with breakthrough solutions that address not just the physical symptoms of acne, but also its emotional impact."
Clinical Significance
Acne vulgaris represents one of the most prevalent skin conditions globally, with implications extending beyond physical symptoms to affect patients' mental health and self-esteem. The introduction of Winlevi® provides healthcare providers with a new treatment option that addresses the underlying mechanisms of acne development.
Christoph Stoller, President & Business Head of Europe and Emerging Markets at Glenmark Pharmaceuticals, highlighted the treatment's potential impact: "This approval by the MHRA represents a significant step forward in our mission to enhance dermatology care. We are proud to offer this new treatment that can improve the quality of life for those living with acne."
