dersimelagon

Dersimelagon is a novel, synthetic, orally-administered, non-peptide small molecule that acts as a selective agonist of the melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R). It is being developed primarily for the treatment of erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) and X-linked protoporphyria (XLP), both rare genetic disorders characterized by extreme photosensitivity and phototoxic reactions. By selectively activating MC1R, dersimelagon increases melanin production in the skin, which can enhance tolerance to sunlight and reduce phototoxic symptoms. The drug has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects in preclinical models. Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation is leading its development; it has received orphan drug designation from regulatory agencies and is currently in phase 3 clinical trials for EPP and XLP[1][2][5][7][8].

Other names

dersimelagon phosphate