Sun Pharma topical acne treatment Winlevi now available in Canada

Mumbai: Sun Pharma Canada Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Limited has announced that WINLEVI (clascoterone cream 1% w/w) is now available in Canada. WINLEVI is the androgen receptor inhibitor indicated for the topical treatment of acne vulgaris (acne) in patients 12 years of age and older.

WINLEVI works differently from any other topical acne treatment. Instead of a topical approach to acne treatment that focuses on follicular hyperkeratinization, reducing inflammation or exerting antibacterial effects, WINLEVI is thought to reduce the effects of acne hormones on skin by disrupting the androgen cascade. 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.

"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.”

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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. 

“Since Health Canada’s approval of WINLEVI, there has been much excitement among dermatologists related to this novel therapeutic and its ability to address an unmet need of Canadians with acne – it’s an opportunity to help improve the quality of life of our patients,” said Dr. Sonya Abdulla, a board-certified dermatologist at Dermatology on Bloor.

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