Sanofi's experimental skin medicine, amlitelimab, has shown promising results in a recent trial, indicating its potential to bolster the company's growth and compete with a similar therapy from Amgen Inc. The trial revealed that after 24 weeks of treatment with the highest dose of amlitelimab, 46% of adults with atopic dermatitis achieved clear or almost clear skin, compared to only 22% after just 16 weeks.
Investors are closely watching the effectiveness of emerging treatments, particularly to gauge their efficacy over time. Sanofi's findings suggest that amlitelimab may be successful in restoring a balance in the immune system, leading to longer-lasting effects. Naimish Patel, Sanofi's head of global development for immunology and inflammation, expressed excitement about the potential for durable disease control and modification.
Amlitelimab belongs to a new class of drugs that target OX40, a component of some immune cells involved in triggering inflammation. Unlike Sanofi's blockbuster skin and asthma drug, Dupixent, which works differently on the body, amlitelimab may open up new treatment options for a wider range of patients. This could help mitigate any potential impact from the eventual loss of patent protection for Dupixent in the coming years.
Dupixent has been a significant revenue driver for Sanofi, with sales of €4.9 billion ($5.2 billion) in the first half of this year alone. However, the company has been proactive in diversifying its pipeline with promising experimental medicines through acquisitions and partnerships. By investing in drugs like amlitelimab, Sanofi aims to establish additional revenue streams to sustain its growth beyond Dupixent.
While Amgen's rocatinlimab currently holds the advantage as it is already in late-stage trials, amlitelimab is not far behind. Sanofi plans to initiate a phase 3 trial for amlitelimab in atopic dermatitis in the first half of 2024, and the drug is also being studied in a mid-stage trial for asthma. According to Citi analyst Peter Verdult, amlitelimab has the potential for peak sales of approximately €1.6 billion.
The progressive development of amlitelimab and its potential as a competitor to Amgen's drug signify positive prospects for Sanofi's expansion into new therapeutic areas. With a growing pipeline and an emphasis on diversification, the company is positioning itself for future success and reducing its reliance on Dupixent.