Sun Pharma launches new hair loss treatment in the US for severe alopecia

Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd on Monday (July 14) announced the US launch of LEQSELVI (deuruxolitinib) 8 mg tablets for the treatment of adults with severe alopecia areata. The drug is now available nationwide to healthcare providers and eligible patients.The launch follows a recently announced settlement and license agreement with Incyte Corporation, resolving ongoing litigation in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey. The companies will now seek dismissal of the case before the court.
Under the agreement, Sun has obtained a limited, non-exclusive license to U.S. Patent No. 9,662,335 and related patents from Incyte, specifically for non-haematology-oncology indications, including alopecia areata.
Also Read: Sun Pharma to ramp up specialty play, eyes more acquisitionsSun will make an upfront payment to Incyte and pay ongoing royalties until the patent expires. Other terms of the settlement and license agreement remain confidential.

LEQSELVI showed rapid results in clinical trials, with one-third of patients regaining nearly full scalp hair by Week 24. Additionally, 3% of patients achieved 80% or more scalp coverage in 8 weeks, addressing a critical unmet need in this area.
“With limited treatment options available to people living with severe alopecia areata in the US, the need for innovative therapies such as LEQSELVI remains critically important.”Also Read: Sun Pharma shares in focus after Halol unit gets eight observations, management rejig

“The launch of LEQSELVI in the US brings an effective, new treatment option for severe alopecia areata to eligible patients and the healthcare providers who treat them,” said Richard Ascroft, CEO, Sun Pharma North America.

The psychosocial impact of alopecia areata can be significant. Many people with severe alopecia areata face psychological distress, including loss of self-confidence, due to the unpredictable nature of hair loss, highlighting the importance of effective treatment.

What is Alopecia Areata?

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, leading to sudden hair loss, typically in patches. In severe cases, it can result in complete loss of scalp hair (alopecia totalis) or even hair across the entire body (alopecia universalis). The condition can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender, and is often unpredictable.

Shares of Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd ended at ₹1,681.45, up by ₹8.95, or 0.54%, on the BSE.

Also Read: Sun Pharma Q4 Results: Profit misses estimate, revenue up 8% YoY; ₹5.50 dividend announced