Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd announced on Tuesday that its experimental drug SCD-044 failed to meet the main treatment goals in two mid-stage clinical trials for psoriasis and atopic dermatitis (eczema).
The oral drug was being tested for its ability to reduce inflammation associated with these chronic skin conditions.
In the psoriasis trial with 263 patients, SCD-044 did not achieve a 75% improvement in symptoms after 16 weeks. This improvement was measured using the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI), a standard tool that assesses the severity and coverage of psoriasis.
In a separate trial involving 250 patients with atopic dermatitis, the drug also missed the primary target—a 75% reduction in symptoms, measured by the Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI).
Sun Pharma reported that the drug was generally safe and well tolerated but said it would stop further development of SCD-044. The company and its research arm, Sun Pharma Advanced Research Company, will consider the next steps for the compound.
“We are disappointed with the results and thank all patients and healthcare professionals who participated in the studies,” said Marek Honczarenko, Senior Vice President of Global Specialty Development.
Sun Pharma’s shares closed at ₹1,667.65 on the BSE, down 0.43 percent.
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