| Name/Company | Approval Dates and Comments |
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Deoxycholic acid Kybella™ |
The US FDA approved this first-in-class adipolytic agent in April 2014 for treating adults with moderate to severe submental (under the chin) fat. Treatment of fat outside of the submental area is not approved and not recommended. Deoxycholic acid (ATX-101) is an injectable treatment for the reduction of submental fullness, which commonly presents as a double chin. ATX-101 is a cytolytic drug identical to the deoxycholic acid that is produced in the body, which helps the body to absorb fats. When properly injected into the submental region, the drug destroys fat cells; however, it can also destroy other types of cells. Patients may receive up to 50 injections in a single treatment, with up to six single treatments administered no less than 1 month apart. |
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Ivermectin 1% cream Rosiver® |
Health Canada approved ivermectin 1% cream in April 2015 for the once daily topical treatment of inflammatory lesions, or bumps and pimples, of rosacea. The exact cause of rosacea is unknown, but multiple triggers have been implicated, including the over-proliferation of Demodex mites in the skin. Ivermectin has both anti-inflammatory and antiparasitic activity. FDA approval was gained in December 2014 and is marketed in the US under the trade name Soolantra®. |
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Adalimumab SC injection Humira® |
The FDA has granted adalimumab, a TNF-á inhibitor, Orphan Drug Designation in May 2015 for the investigational treatment of moderate to severe hidradenitis suppurativa (acne inversa, HS) (Hurley Stage II and Hurley Stage III disease). The etiology of HS is not well understood, but both dysregulation of the inflammatory cascade in the hair follicle and wound healing have been implicated. The anti-inflammatory effects of TNF-á inhibition are believed to influence the pathogenic mechanisms in HS. |
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Apremilast tablets Otezla® |
In June 2015, Health Canada approved an expanded indication for apremilast, an oral phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitor, which was initially approved in November 2014 for treating patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who are candidates for phototherapy or systemic therapy. The new indication is for the treatment of patients with psoriatic arthritis. |
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Dermal filler with calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) Radiesse® |
In June 2015, Health Canada approved an expanded indication for apremilast, an oral phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitor, which was initially approved in November 2014 for treating patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who are candidates for phototherapy or systemic therapy. The new indication is for the treatment of patients with psoriatic arthritis. |
| In Memoriam | |
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Our hearts are heavy with the passing of our founder and 20-year Editor-in-Chief, W. Stuart Maddin, on May 21, 2015. The life of Stuart Maddin is a singular example of a great leader, visionary, innovator, and mentor. Those fortunate enough to have been touched by his unflagging spirit will continue to draw inspiration from his wisdom and tenacity. As an ambassador for dermatology, his global reach in this special discipline spanned over 60 years, and his legacy is beyond measure and compare. |
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| Passing the Torch | |
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Starting in June 2015, Skin Therapy Letter will be guided by our new Editor-in-Chief, D. Richard Thomas, MD, who will take over from Stuart Maddin. The staff and Editorial Board are both pleased to have such an excellent individual taking the reins to serve the dermatologic community in this role. |
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