Investigative eczema drug shows positive phase 2 results

UK-based Ziarco Pharma Ltd. recently announced positive phase 2a results for ZPL-389, a once daily oral histamine H4 receptor antagonist, for the treatment of moderate to severe atopic dermatitis.

Ninety-eight adult subjects with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis were randomized 2:1 to receive 30 mg ZPL-389 or a once daily placebo for eight weeks.

Researchers report a 50% improvement in Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI) among those in the active group compared to placebo at week eight. Those treated with ZPL-389 reduced the overall SCORing Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD) by 43%, compared to 26% among controls. And in the ZPL-389 group, participants experienced an 18% reduction in body surface area affected by atopic dermatitis, versus 12 percent for placebo.

Safety and tolerability were comparable between the treatment and control groups, with ZPL-389 being well tolerated.

Ziarco’s Phase 2b study, with EASI as the primary end point, will run for 12 weeks to study longer dosing of the drug, according to the announcement.