Leo Pharma submits MAA for scalp psoriasis gel

Leo Pharma has this week announced the submission of a marketing authorisation application (MAA) for Daivobet scalp gel to the health authorities in 16 European countries and the US.

The company reports that the treatment has undergone comprehensive clinical trials in both Europe and North America involving over 5,300 patients, with these studies showing that around 70 per cent of patients gain control of their scalp psoriasis within eight weeks of administration of the gel.

Furthermore, 80 per cent of patients report that their disease is under control after eight weeks of using the drug.

The compound was found to be fast-acting, with 60 per cent of its effects in patients exhibited after two weeks of the start of treatment.

“Leo Pharma and Warner Chilcott expect to be able to market this new drug in several European countries, as well as in the US In 2008,” the company reports.

The company notes that 65 per cent of psoriasis patients endure the condition on both their scalp and body simultaneously, while it can be difficult for many patients to find an effective treatment option.

In August 2006, Leo Pharma reported that its ointments can be more effective than approved alternatives as treatments for severe cases of psoriasis.