Aurobindo Arm Acrotech Launches ADQUEY in US for Atopic Dermatitis, Enters Dermatology Market

Difamilast was originally discovered and developed by Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. and licensed to Acrotech Biopharma for commercialization in the United States.

The launch marks Acrotech's entry into the US dermatology market and expands its commercial presence into a new strategic therapeutic area. To support the launch of ADQUEY and its long-term plans in dermatology, the company has established a dedicated dermatology business unit with specialized capabilities across marketing, sales and field-based engagement.

According to IQVIA MAT data, the market in which ADQUEY will compete was estimated at around US$1.3 billion for the twelve months ending July 2026.

“The launch of ADQUEY is an important milestone for Acrotech and marks our entry into the U.S. dermatology market with a differentiated treatment option for patients living with atopic dermatitis,” said Ashish Anvekar, President of Acrotech Biopharma.

“We are building more than a commercial organization around a single product. We are establishing a dedicated dermatology platform designed to support ADQUEY today while creating the capabilities to pursue additional opportunities that can address important unmet needs in dermatologic care,” he added.

The dedicated dermatology business will focus on building awareness of ADQUEY, engaging with dermatology healthcare professionals and supporting patients throughout their treatment journey. It will also work on developing the infrastructure and expertise required to expand Acrotech's presence in the specialty dermatology market.

The launch of ADQUEY builds on Acrotech's strategy to expand its portfolio of innovative medicines and establish focused commercial platforms in areas of significant patient need.

ADQUEY (difamilast) 1% ointment is a non-steroidal topical phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor indicated for the topical treatment of mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis in adults and pediatric patients aged 2 years and older.

ADQUEY was discovered and developed by Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. and is licensed to Acrotech Biopharma for commercialization in the United States.

Acrotech Biopharma Inc. is a step-down subsidiary of Aurobindo Pharma Ltd., India, and was formed as a global platform to commercialize innovative proprietary medications. The company aims to launch scientifically advanced products to address unmet needs and deliver value to patients and healthcare stakeholders.

Acrotech describes itself as a patient-focused, research-based organization committed to bringing innovative treatments to patients who need them.

Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. is a total healthcare company headquartered in Japan. Its medical-related business provides treatments and diagnostics for physical and mental health, while its nutraceutical business supports daily health maintenance and improvement.

The company develops products and services based on scientific evidence under its corporate philosophy, “Otsuka-people creating new products for better health worldwide.”

Aurobindo Pharma Limited is an integrated global pharmaceutical company headquartered in Hyderabad, India. The company develops, manufactures and commercializes generic pharmaceuticals, branded specialty pharmaceuticals and active pharmaceutical ingredients across more than 150 countries.

It has 31 manufacturing and packaging facilities approved by leading regulatory agencies including the USFDA, UK MHRA, EDQM, Japan PMDA, WHO, Health Canada, South Africa MCC and Brazil ANVISA.

Aurobindo Pharma's product portfolio spans seven major therapeutic/product areas, including CNS, anti-retroviral, CVS, antibiotics, gastroenterological, anti-diabetic and anti-allergic products, supported by its R&D capabilities.