A comparison of DHT reduction via Finasteride and Dutasteride.
Over the years, I have mentioned a number of times that people with androgenetic alopecia (AGA) tend to have higher rates of scalp itching, dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, sebum production and inflammation. I feel that treating these conditions can improve the chances of your hair follicles surviving the onslaught of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) for a little longer.
I was not planning to write this post, but earlier today I saw an interesting new video on DHT and skin disorders. It is an hour long and I only watched one-half of it (via the timestamp subjects that I found of most interest).
The narrator analyzes a number of studies and also discusses Clascoterone (Winlevi) and androgen receptor antagonist KX-826 (Pyrilutamide). I find the video a bit disjointed, but it is a great overall effort. He covers acne, dermatitis, overactive sebaceous glands (and their suppression), scalp inflammation and other DHT-mediated skin disorders.
Of particular note, the video specifically breaks out Clobetasol (a corticosteroid) and Tacrolimus (an immunosuppressive agent) to combat scalp inflammation. Clobetasol propionate shampoos can be purchased online, but require a prescription. The same is the case with Tacrolimus ointments and creams. Do make sure to talk to your dermatologist if you ever try such products. And watch out for any potential side effects, especially with long term use.
I first wrote this post on Winlevi and acne in 2019 and am updating it again. Winlevi clascoterone 1% cream is a first-in-class androgen receptor inhibitor that can be used by both males and females. Also see my related posts on clascoterone based hair loss treatment Breezula.
Update: November 1, 2021 — Sun Pharma announces that Winlevi Clascoterone 1% cream is now available for sale in the US. To be used for the treatment of acne vulgaris.
August 1, 2021
Winlevi, Cassiopea and Sun Pharma
Winlevi (clascoterone cream 1%) will now be released in the US market in the fourth quarter of 2021. Official website here.
The US FDA approved Winlevi® (clascoterone cream 1%) in August 2020 for the topical treatment of acne vulgaris. This prescription drug is a topical alternative to Accutane and Spironolactone. It is an anti-hormonal treatment for acne that targets the androgen receptor. It works by reducing sebum production and scalp inflammation.
Many people will inevitably try to use Winlevi on their scalps for hair growth (via off-label prescription). This is not recommended by the manufacturer.
August 27, 2020
Winlevi Approved by the FDA to Treat Acne
Winlevi Clascoterone Cream 1% Acne Treatment.
Cassiopea’s Winlevi topical androgen receptor inhibitor was just approved as an acne treatment by the US FDA. It is the first acne treatment with a new mechanism of action to be approved in 40 years.
The US FDA is also reviewing a new drug application (NDA) for clascoterone cream 1% to treat acne.
“Dermatologists have said targeting androgen hormonal activity in the skin is ‘the holy grail’ of acne treatment for both males and females.”
August 23, 2019
I have covered Italian company Cassiopea numerous times on this blog. Primarily due to its Breezula topical product for male pattern hair loss. Earlier this year, Cassiopea announced very good 12-month Phase 2 clinical trial results for Breezula.
Clascoterone and Acne
Cassiopea is also working on an acne product called Winlevi. Both Breezula and Winlevi are based on the same key ingredient: Clascoterone. However, the dosage in the latter is significantly lower at 1%. This acne product is almost ready to come to market per Cassiopea’s product pipeline.
Winlevi clinical trial and NDA filing schedule.
Earlier this week, Cassiopea made a major announcement. The company has submitted a New Drug Application (NDA) to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) seeking marketing approval for clascoterone cream 1% for the treatment of acne.
My Thoughts
Some interesting points in the press release and my thoughts:
Clascoterone cream 1% targets androgen receptors at the site of application. This inhibits the local (skin) effects of dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Apparently, DHT is a key driver of acne lesion development. Most people wrongly assume it is solely testosterone.
This acne treatment product will be safe to use in both males and females.
If approved, clascoterone cream 1% will represent the first new mechanism of action in the treatment of acne in almost 40 years. Interestingly, if Breezula is approved for hair loss in 2021, it will be the first new topical or oral treatment for hair loss in almost 25 years.
