Regeneron Pharmaceuticals and Sanofi have announced encouraging results from the Phase IV DISCOVER trial of Dupixent (dupilumab) in treating moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD) in adolescents and adults with skin of color. The findings were presented at the 2025 Revolutionizing Atopic Dermatitis Conference.
The open-label study involved 120 participants with AD and skin of color who received Dupixent biweekly. After 24 weeks, 76% experienced at least a 75% improvement in overall disease severity, with some observing improvements as early as two weeks.
Key Findings of the DISCOVER Trial
- Significant Improvement: 76% of subjects achieved a ≥75% improvement in overall disease severity at 24 weeks.
- Itch Reduction: 53% of patients experienced a reduction in itch.
- Hyperpigmentation Decrease: There was a 53% decrease in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from baseline.
- Safety Profile: The trial's safety outcomes were consistent with Dupixent's known safety profile in dermatological applications.
Participants in the DISCOVER trial, aged 12 and above, were treated with Dupixent monotherapy based on weight. The primary goal was achieving a minimum of a 75% improvement on the Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI-75) at 24 weeks. Secondary endpoints included the proportion of subjects achieving ≥4-point improvement on the Peak-Pruritus Numerical Rating Scale (PP-NRS).
Understanding Atopic Dermatitis and Skin of Color
AD is a chronic skin condition characterized by type 2 inflammation. It can be particularly severe in individuals with skin of color, often leading to more pronounced symptoms and skin lesions. Skin of color, in this study, was defined as Fitzpatrick skin types IV-VI.
About Dupixent (dupilumab)
Dupixent, invented using Regeneron's VelocImmune technology, is a monoclonal antibody that blocks the signalling of interleukin-4 and interleukin-13 pathways without acting as an immunosuppressant. This targeted approach offers a promising avenue for managing atopic dermatitis, particularly in populations where the condition presents with unique challenges.