Nektar Therapeutics is on the verge of a critical phase in its pursuit of a successful comeback. The company, which has seen its shares decline by more than 40% since November 2023, is awaiting one-year maintenance results from the rezpeg Phase 2 study focused on treating moderate-to-severe eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis. These results are expected to be released this month.
The stakes are high for Nektar as the current efficacy standard for maintenance treatments is set by established competitors, such as Dupixent and Ebglyss. Both treatments maintain approximately 70% of patients with atopic dermatitis in an EASI75 response, which indicates significant improvement in skin lesions, after one year. To qualify for maintenance therapies, patients must achieve an EASI75 response following a 16-week induction period.
Nektar’s rezpeg study aims to determine if its treatment can meet or exceed this benchmark. The upcoming data will play a crucial role in shaping the company’s future and its stock performance, which has faced increasing pressure in recent months. Investors will be closely watching the results, as a positive outcome could revive interest in Nektar’s portfolio and bring renewed confidence to its stakeholders.
The company’s struggle underscores the competitive landscape within the biotechnology industry, particularly in the realm of dermatological treatments. As the market continues to evolve, Nektar Therapeutics must navigate significant challenges to regain its foothold and appeal to both patients and investors alike. The forthcoming data from the rezpeg study will undoubtedly be pivotal in this process.
As the release date approaches, the pressure mounts on Nektar to deliver results that can sway the market’s perception and potentially alter its trajectory in the treatment of atopic dermatitis.
