Afamelanotide: An Orphan Drug with Potential for Broad Dermatologic Applications

Abstract

Afamelanotide (SCENESSEr) is a synthetic analogue of a-melanocyte-stimulating hormone that is FDA-approved to increase pain-free sunlight exposure in adult patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria. Its dual photoprotective and anti-inflammatory effects also make it a promising therapy for other photosensitive dermatologic diseases that are resistant to treatment. The PubMed/MEDLINE and ClinicalTrials.gov databases were searched for literature and ongoing trials describing the use of afamelanotide in treating cutaneous diseases. There is randomized controlled trial (RCT) evidence for the successful use of afamelanotide in several conditions beyond erythropoietic protoporphyria, including polymorphic light eruption and vitiligo. Smaller studies have also demonstrated its efficacy in treating acne vulgaris, Hailey-Hailey disease, and solar urticaria. No serious adverse effects with afamelanotide use have been reported, though diffuse hyperpigmentation is experienced by almost all patients. Larger scale studies are needed to confirm the efficacy of afamelanotide in treating dermatologic conditions beyond erythropoietic protoporphyria, and further research should focus on determining the safety, efficacy, and optimal dosing of afamelanotide for pediatric patients.J Drugs Dermatol. 2021;20(3):290-294. doi:10.36849/JDD.2021.5526.