Source – Tarsus Pharmaceuticals
Tarsus Pharmaceuticals has achieved a groundbreaking milestone with the FDA approval of Xdemvy, the first-ever treatment for Demodex blepharitis, a condition that affects around 25 million Americans. Demodex blepharitis is caused by an infestation of Demodex mites, and Xdemvy, an eye drop formulation of pet flea and tick treatment lotilaner, specifically targets and eliminates these mites.
Anticipated to be available by the end of August, Xdemvy has shown promising results in trials involving more than 833 patients. Researchers observed significant improvement in collarettes, the waste and eggs left by the mites, providing hope for patients who previously had limited treatment options.
“We are thrilled to announce the FDA approval of XDEMVY for the treatment of Demodex blepharitis and look forward to making this product broadly available to the millions of patients who have not had any FDA approved therapeutics for this disease. This tremendous milestone was achieved through a successful collaboration of our talented Tarsus team, countless eye care providers and the hundreds of patients who participated in our trials. We are grateful and honored for the opportunity to introduce the first and only approved therapeutic for this disease to the eye care community.”
– Bobak Azamian, MD, PhD, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Tarsus
Before the advent of Xdemvy, individuals suffering from Demodex blepharitis resorted to tea tree oil and lid wipes, which only addressed symptoms but failed to target the root cause of the disease.
To raise awareness and promote early diagnosis, Tarsus launched marketing campaigns like “Don’t Freak Out. Get Checked Out” and “Look at the Lids,” encouraging eye doctors to screen for the condition.
Apart from Xdemvy’s success, Tarsus Pharmaceuticals is actively working on other treatments, with a pipeline that includes therapies for meibomian gland dysfunction, rosacea, and Lyme disease. With such innovative solutions, Tarsus is making a significant impact in the field of ophthalmology and bringing hope to patients suffering from various eye-related conditions.
“After years of seeing Demodex blepharitis in my practice without an effective way to target the root cause of the disease, I’m so pleased to have a new treatment to offer my patients. Demodex blepharitis, easily diagnosed by the presence of eyelash collarettes, can result in ocular damage in multiple ways, including irritation, eyelash distention or loss and inflammation, which can be uncomfortable for patients. This new medicine is a positive step forward for the treatment of this disease in many patients who have been struggling for years.”
– Christopher Starr, MD, Associate Professor of Ophthalmology, Director of Refractive Surgery, Ophthalmic Education and the Cornea Fellowship Program at Weill Cornell Medicine, New York Presbyterian Hospital
