Tretinoin

Tretinoin (also known as Retinoic Acid) is the topical treatment of choice for acne. However, it is poorly soluble and is associated with irritation and dryness of the skin. In the US alone the sales for topical acne treatments in 2006 were US$1.3 billion of which topical prescription retinoids, such as tretinoin, contributed US$347 million.

Pre-clinical studies demonstrated both an increase in dermal absorption of tretinoin when formulated with Phosphagenics’ proprietary drug delivery platform (TPM), and a significant reduction in irritation scores, while limiting the delivery of tretinoin into the system circulation, compared to tretinoin alone.

Following this, Phosphagenics has obtained favorable results in a phase I human safety and irritation clinical trial conducted in the U.S. and plans are underway to commence a human dermal pharmacokinetic trial, to assess the level of bioavailability of Phosphagenics’ tretinoin formulation, in the near future.

A new formulation with the ability to deliver greater absorption of tretinoin, reduce irritation and dryness and limit systemic circulation should significantly increase the topical prescription retinoids market.