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Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, Initiates Phase 3 Study for Enpatoran in Lupus with Active Skin Manifestations
Today, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, whose U.S. healthcare arm is EMD Serono, announced that the first trial participant has been dosed in its Phase 3 ELOWEN study evaluating enpatoran, an investigational oral therapy for people living with lupus who experience active skin manifestations. The program addresses a significant unmet need, as up to 85% of people with lupus experience cutaneous symptoms that can be painful, visible, and challenging to manage with current treatments.
The global ELOWEN-1 and ELOWEN-2 studies will enroll approximately 400 participants across 26 countries and evaluate enpatoran taken alongside the standard of care. Enpatoran is a selective toll-like receptor 7/8 inhibitor pill designed to target key inflammatory pathways involved in lupus, with the potential to improve both skin and systemic disease activity. The trials build on positive Phase 2 findings and will assess changes in skin disease severity using established clinical measures, while also exploring the connection between skin symptoms and overall lupus activity.
The ELOWEN study represents continued progress in lupus research and may help expand future treatment options for people living with lupus. Learn more about opportunities to participate in clinical trials.