Viatris Inc. (NASDAQ:VTRS) saw its stock drop 3.6% following news that its late-stage trial for MR-139, a potential treatment for blepharitis, did not achieve its primary endpoint.
The Phase 3 study, which was randomized, double-masked, and vehicle-controlled, tested pimecrolimus 0.3% (MR-139) ophthalmic ointment in patients suffering from blepharitis. The trial aimed to measure the complete resolution of eyelid debris after six weeks of twice-daily application, but the treatment did not meet that benchmark.
Philippe Martin, Chief R&D Officer at Viatris, commented on the development, saying the company is “evaluating the appropriate next steps for the Phase 3 program, which may include revising the planned additional Phase 3 study.”
A total of 477 participants were enrolled in the trial and randomized to receive either MR-139 or a placebo, administered to the eyelids twice daily for a 12-week duration.
While MR-139 fell short, Viatris reaffirmed its focus on expanding its ophthalmology pipeline, including innovative therapies like Tyrvaya and RYZUMVI. The company also highlighted recent progress in other areas, noting positive top-line results from two other Phase 3 trials: the LYNX-2 study of MR-142 targeting keratorefractive patients, and the VEGA-3 trial assessing MR-141 for presbyopia treatment.
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