Arcutis enrolls first patient in Phase 1b study evaluating ARQ-255

Arcutis Biotherapeutics announced the first subject has been enrolled in a Phase 1b study evaluating ARQ-255, a topical suspension of ivarmactinib, a potent and specific janus kinase 1 inhibitor, for the treatment of alopecia areata. ARQ-255 has been specifically formulated with Arcutis’ proprietary 4D technology to deliver drug deep into the skin to the base of the hair follicle, the site of the inflammation that underlies alopecia areata. "Alopecia areata is an immune condition that not only causes hair loss, but also causes significant negative impact on an individual’s emotional and mental wellbeing. Today, there are no FDA-approved topical therapies to treat the condition," said Frank Watanabe, President and CEO at Arcutis. "We are delighted to take this first step in the clinical development of ARQ-255, which leverages our unique 4D technology to deliver drug to the site of inflammation deep in the hair follicle."