India Pharma Outlook Team | Wednesday, 27 September 2023
PRWINLEVI is now accessible in Canada, according to Sun Pharma Canada Inc. According to the company, WINLEVI is the first and only androgen receptor inhibitor approved for the topical treatment of acne vulgaris (acne) in patients 12 and older. Sun Pharma claims that WINLEVI works differently than any other topical acne therapy.
WINLEVI is hypothesized to diminish the effects of acne hormones on skin by interrupting the androgen cascade, as opposed to a topical approach to acne therapy that focuses on follicular hyperkeratinisation, lowering inflammation, or exerting antibacterial properties. While the specific mechanism of action of WINLEVI is uncertain, it is thought to operate by inhibiting the activities of androgen receptors in cells of the sebaceous glands (oil-producing glands in the skin) to help decrease sebum (oil) production and inflammatory cytokines.
“Sun Pharma is excited to launch this much-anticipated, innovative topical solution for the millions of Canadians affected by acne,” said Abhay Gandhi, North America CEO of Sun Pharma. “The launch of WINLEVI enhances Sun Pharma’s specialty product portfolio in Canada and reflects our commitment to providing innovative dermatology medicines that address patients’ needs.” Despite data showing that acne affects approximately 20 per cent of Canadians and can affect patients’ health related quality of life through potentially increased risk of depression and anxiety, innovation in the space is minimal, as per Health Desk. WINLEVI is the first and only topical androgen receptor inhibitor, as well as the newest Health Canada-approved formulation to treat the hormonal component of acne in 40 years.