Sun Pharma Canada Inc. on Wednesday announced that PRWINLEVI is now available in Canada. According to the company’s press statement, WINLEVI is the first and only androgen receptor inhibitor indicated for the topical treatment of acne vulgaris (acne) in patients 12 years of age and older.
According to Sun Pharma, WINLEVI works differently from any other topical acne treatment. Instead of a topical approach to acne treatment that focuses on follicular hyperkeratinisation, reducing inflammation or exerting antibacterial effects, WINLEVI is thought to reduce the effects of acne hormones on skin by disrupting the androgen cascade, it claimed.
While the exact way that WINLEVI works is unknown, it aims to inhibit the effects of androgen receptors in cells of the sebaceous glands (oil-producing glands in the skin) to help reduce sebum (oil) production and inflammatory cytokines, it added.
“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.
WINLEVI is the first and only topical androgen receptor inhibitor, and the newest Health Canada-approved formulation to target the hormonal component of acne in 40 years, it stated.
