Merz Pharma acquires antifungal agent Onmel

Merz Pharma has expanded its portfolio of antifungal treatments through the acquisition of the oral therapy Onmel.

The US-approved product is an azole antifungal that is indicated for the treatment of onychomycosis of the toenail caused by Trichophyton rubrumor T. Mentagrophytes among non-immunocompromised patients.

In cases of onychomycosis, the infection causes the nail to thicken, discolour, disfigure and split, with this condition being the most common nail disease among adults.

It is generally considered a difficult problem to treat due to the slow growth of and low blood supply to human nails, with half of all nail disorders caused by some form of onychomycosis.

Jim Hartman, vice-president for dermatology at Merz, said: "Merz currently has the number one branded prescription topical antifungal, Naftin, in the US marketplace. Onmel is the perfect addition to our antifungal product portfolio."

Naftin is recognised by Merz as one of the most important therapies in its portfolio, alongside brands such as Axura, Solvex, Pantostin and Belotero.