Hidradenitis suppurativa
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), also known as acne inversa, is a condition that causes small, painful lumps to form under the skin. These lumps typically develop in areas where skin rubs together, such as the armpits, groin, buttocks, and breasts. The lumps heal slowly, tend to recur and can lead to tunnels under the skin and scarring. HS usually begins after puberty, often before age 40, and can persist for years, often worsening over time. It can significantly impact daily life and emotional well-being. Treatment with both medical and surgical therapies can help manage the condition and prevent complications. Women are three times more likely to develop hidradenitis suppurativa, although this ratio can vary by region. Additionally, Black individuals are more likely to be affected, potentially due to genetic factors.
Symptoms:
Hidradenitis suppurativa can affect one or more areas of the body. Common signs and symptoms include:
- Blackheads: Tiny, pitted spots on the skin, often appearing in pairs.
- Painful lumps: The condition usually begins with a single, painful lump under the skin that can last for weeks or months. Over time, additional lumps may form, typically in areas with higher concentrations of sweat and oil glands, or where skin rubs together, such as the armpits, groin, buttocks, and breasts.
- Leaking bumps or sores: Some bumps grow larger, burst open, and release pus with an unpleasant odor.
- Tunnels: Tunnels can develop under the skin, linking the lumps. These areas heal slowly, if at all, and may drain blood and pus.
The severity of the condition varies. Some people experience only mild symptoms, while others face more severe forms of the disease. Excess weight and smoking are linked to worse symptoms, but even people who are thin and non-smokers can experience severe cases.
Drug Class Distribution and Development Phases
According to the AdisInsight database, the following is a detailed overview of drugs categorized into six major drug classes, along with their respective development phases. The monoclonal antibodies category leads the market, with the largest number of drugs in both early-stage and registered/launch phases.
Drug development phases Vs drug class
Fig 22: Development phases of drugs versus drug class distribution
The graph clearly shows that antibodies—including bispecific antibodies, monoclonal antibodies, and single-domain antibodies—are at the forefront of development. Eight drugs are in the registration phase, two are in the preregistration phase, fifteen are in early-stage clinical development, and three are in late-stage clinical development.
Analysis of Development Phases and Routes of Administration
Based on data from the AdisInsight database, as shown in the graph, the subcutaneous administration route is the most advanced, with four drugs in late-stage clinical development, ten in early-stage development, two in the preregistration phase, and eight already registered.
Drug development phases Vs RoA
Fig 23: Development phases of drugs versus RoA distribution
Drug development phases Vs formulation of drugs
Fig 24: Development phases of drugs versus formulation
Overview of Development Stages and Formulations
The AdisInsight database indicates that gel formulations are leading in development, with ten drugs in early-stage clinical trials and three in late-stage clinical trials.
Drugs Available for Licensing
The hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) drug market is projected to expand in the coming years, driven by factors such as growing awareness, increasing obesity rates, and a rise in skin-related conditions. As a result, pharmaceutical companies are increasingly focused on acquiring treatments for HS. For instance, Sanofi is collaborating with Kymera Therapeutics on a Phase 2 clinical trial for the drug KT-474 (SAR444656). The first patient was dosed in October 2023, and the study is expected to conclude in Q1 2025, with topline data anticipated in the first half of 2025. Sanofi expects KT-474 (SAR444656) to contribute significantly to its revenue growth in the coming years. According to the AdisInsight database, there are currently several drugs available for licensing, including three in early-stage clinical development and three in the preclinical phase.
Table 24- Drugs available for licensing for Hidradenitis suppurativa