Pharmaceutical Business review

Sanofi and Regeneron’s atopic dermatitis drug receives FDA breakthrough therapy status

Dupilumab is indicated for AD patients who are not adequately controlled with topical prescription therapy and/or for whom these treatments are not appropriate.

It is an investigational therapy that blocks IL-4 and IL-13, two cytokines required for the Th2 immune response.

The FDA breakthrough therapy designation is based on previously reported positive results from Phase I and II clinical trials.

National Eczema Association chief executive officer Julie Block said: "Moderate to severe atopic dermatitis is a debilitating, life-altering disease with very limited treatment options.

"Many patients suffer for years with widespread inflamed skin, debilitating itch, sleep disturbances and other challenges."

Currently, the companies are carrying out a Phase III clinical program for dupilumab in adults with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis.

Dupilumab was developed using Regeneron’s VelocImmune technology and is being jointly developed with Sanofi in atopic dermatitis, asthma and chronic sinusitis with nasal polyposis.