New oral formulation of plaque psoriasis drug approved in EU

Spain’s leading drugmaker Almirall (ALM: MC) has received European clearance to market Skilarence (dimethyl fumarate), a new oral formulation of a type of fumaric acid ester, for the treatment of patients with moderate-to-severe chronic plaque psoriasis.

The company says it will start selling the product, which is indicated as a first-line induction and long-term maintenance treatment, throughout the European Union this year.

Chief executive Eduardo Sanchiz said: “The approval is very good news for healthcare professionals and for a large number of European patients, who will have access to a new therapeutic option for the systemic treatment of moderate-to-severe psoriasis.”