Pharmaceutical giants Pfizer and Glenmark have joined forces to introduce a revolutionary oral treatment for moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD) in India. The innovative drug, abrocitinib, developed by Pfizer, has received approval from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) in India, as well as from regulatory agencies such as the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA).

Abrocitinib, set to be launched in India under the brand names JABRYUS® and CIBINQO® by Glenmark and Pfizer, respectively, marks a breakthrough in the treatment of AD. The collaboration leverages the expertise of both companies to provide an advanced systemic treatment that combines improved efficacy with oral convenience for patients. This Janus kinase 1 (JAK1) inhibitor is already available in over 35 markets globally, including the US, Japan, and China.

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin disease characterized by skin inflammation and barrier defects. The persistent itching associated with moderate-to-severe AD can significantly impact daily life, affecting social interactions, work productivity, and overall well-being. Abrocitinib, with its rapid itch relief and sustained disease control, promises to enhance the quality of life for patients.

Meenakshi Nevatia, Country President and Managing Director of Pfizer India, expressed optimism about abrocitinib's transformative potential and said, "We believe in abrocitinib’s transformative potential. Its approval is a milestone in bringing high?quality treatment for moderate?to?severe atopic dermatitis in India, enabling patients to manage symptoms more effectively. Our collaboration with Glenmark will help leverage the collective strengths and capabilities of our organizations to make this breakthrough therapy available to patients and physicians across our country.” 

Alok Malik, President and Business Head - India Formulations at Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd. said, “We are excited to collaborate with Pfizer India for the launch of abrocitinib in the country. The prevalence of atopic dermatitis in India has been reported to be increasing owing to changes in environmental factors with symptoms appearing during the initial years of life in around 80 percent of patients. Being a leader in dermatology therapy in India, this partnership will help us ensure the availability of this effective treatment for the Indian patients suffering from moderate?to?severe AD; and further strengthen our position in the dermatology therapy space.” 

The prevalence of AD has been on the rise globally, with an estimated 10-20 percent prevalence in developed countries. In India, approximately 5.9 percent of adults are affected by AD, with 4.4 percent suffering from a severe form of the disease. The collaboration between Pfizer and Glenmark addresses the growing need for effective treatments, aiming to alleviate the burden on patients and improve their quality of life.