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Last Updated: March 26, 2026

CLINICAL TRIALS PROFILE FOR CLASCOTERONE


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All Clinical Trials for clascoterone

Trial ID Title Status Sponsor Phase Start Date Summary
NCT01631474 ↗ A Phase 2 Dose Escalating Study to Evaluate the Safety and Efficacy of CB-03-01 Cream in Subjects With Facial Acne Vulgaris Completed Intrepid Therapeutics, Inc. Phase 2 2012-06-01 CB-03-01 is being developed for the topical treatment of acne vulgaris, an androgen-dependent skin disorder. The purpose of this study is to compare the safety and efficacy of multiple concentrations of CB-03-01 to vehicle in the treatment of acne vulgaris.
NCT05891795 ↗ Clascoterone for Steroid-related Acne Vulgaris in Transgender Male Patients Receiving Masculinizing Hormone Therapy Not yet recruiting Stanford University Phase 1/Phase 2 2023-06-01 Mechanism-based acne treatment for transgender patients receiving testosterone currently does not exist and is an unmet medical need. This study explores clascoterone to treat testosterone induced acne. Many treatments we use to treat acne in females cannot be used in transgender males because they interfere with hormone therapy. Androgens have been associated with the development of acne vulgaris. Recently, a topical androgen receptor inhibitor cream (clascoterone) has been FDA-approved for the treatment of acne. However, clinical trials of clascoterone have excluded participants on exogenous hormones. Clascoterone has been hypothesized to be effective in the treatment of acne in transgender male participants on masculinizing hormone therapy, but it has never been studied or reported in the literature.
NCT05910450 ↗ A Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Clascoterone Solution in Treatment of Male Pattern Hair Loss Not yet recruiting Canfield Scientific Inc. Phase 3 2023-06-01 The purpose of the study is to see if Clascoterone can help people with male pattern hair loss to recovery and see if the treatment is effective and safe and how well the drug is tolerated by subjects. Within this study, the Clascoterone solution will be compared to a placebo. The study has 2 parts: Part 1 will see if Clascoterone solution is effective and safe compared to a placebo when applied twice daily for up to 6 months. Part 2 will see the long-term safety and efficacy of the Clascoterone solution compared to placebo for additional 6 months in subjects defined as ''responders'' in Part 1. A responder is defined as someone who have responded to the study drug, based on research data. Part 1 of the study is double-blind, meaning that neither the subject nor the study doctor knows which treatment subject is receiving. Part 2 of the study is single-blind and only the study doctor doing the study knows which treatment subject is receiving. Part 1 of the study will start with baseline visit during which subjects will be randomly assigned (by chance) in ratio 2:1 to apply either Clascoterone or placebo solution to their balding areas of the scalp. Subjects will have 5 clinic visits and 2 follow-up phone calls during 6 months of Part 1 duration. Subjects identified as Part 1 responders at Month 6 visit will be again randomly assigned in ratio 2:1 to receive either study drug or placebo. Part 2 of the study will consist of 2 additional clinic visits and treatment will last for further 6 months. Each subject will have also an end of study visit one month after the study drug treatment has been completed or discontinued (it will be one month after end of Part 1 for not responder subjects). For those subjects who complete the whole study (Part 1 and Part 2), the total duration of the study will be about 14 months, with 12 months of treatment with a total of eight clinic visits and two phone calls. Subjects taking part in this study will have the medical tests or procedures described below. - They will be asked about their previous medical history and current medications. - A brief physical examination will be performed. - Vital signs, weight and height will be measured. - Electrocardiograms will be performed. - Subject's scalp will be checked for any signs of irritation. - Two different types of photos will be taken during this study: "global photos", i.e. general photos of the subject's scalp and "macro photos", i.e. close up photos of a region of the subject's scalp. Global photos will be taken to help the subject and the study doctor to assess whether there has been a change in subject's hair growth. Macro photos will be used to count the number of hairs in a region of the subject's scalp and measure other properties of the hair (hair width and hair darkness). - Blood draws and urine sample collection for safety laboratory tests. - Subject will be asked to complete, on site, the following two questionnaires: - Cosmetic Evaluation - a couple of cosmetic questions on acceptability and how easy the study drug is to use. - Male Androgenetic Alopecia Questionnaire - some questions about subject's hair assessment. Eligible subjects will be given a supply of the study drug and shown how to use and store it. The first study drug dose will be applied at the clinic under the supervision of the study staff. Subjects will be instructed to apply about 1.5 ml of study drug with a dropper to the balding areas of the scalp on the vertex and the temples twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening. Subjects will be asked to bring back all used containers of study drug and all unused study drug to each study visit. Subjects will also be given a diary, shown what things have to be recorded on it and asked to bring back the completed diary to the study center at each visit.
NCT05910450 ↗ A Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Clascoterone Solution in Treatment of Male Pattern Hair Loss Not yet recruiting Ergomed PLC Phase 3 2023-06-01 The purpose of the study is to see if Clascoterone can help people with male pattern hair loss to recovery and see if the treatment is effective and safe and how well the drug is tolerated by subjects. Within this study, the Clascoterone solution will be compared to a placebo. The study has 2 parts: Part 1 will see if Clascoterone solution is effective and safe compared to a placebo when applied twice daily for up to 6 months. Part 2 will see the long-term safety and efficacy of the Clascoterone solution compared to placebo for additional 6 months in subjects defined as ''responders'' in Part 1. A responder is defined as someone who have responded to the study drug, based on research data. Part 1 of the study is double-blind, meaning that neither the subject nor the study doctor knows which treatment subject is receiving. Part 2 of the study is single-blind and only the study doctor doing the study knows which treatment subject is receiving. Part 1 of the study will start with baseline visit during which subjects will be randomly assigned (by chance) in ratio 2:1 to apply either Clascoterone or placebo solution to their balding areas of the scalp. Subjects will have 5 clinic visits and 2 follow-up phone calls during 6 months of Part 1 duration. Subjects identified as Part 1 responders at Month 6 visit will be again randomly assigned in ratio 2:1 to receive either study drug or placebo. Part 2 of the study will consist of 2 additional clinic visits and treatment will last for further 6 months. Each subject will have also an end of study visit one month after the study drug treatment has been completed or discontinued (it will be one month after end of Part 1 for not responder subjects). For those subjects who complete the whole study (Part 1 and Part 2), the total duration of the study will be about 14 months, with 12 months of treatment with a total of eight clinic visits and two phone calls. Subjects taking part in this study will have the medical tests or procedures described below. - They will be asked about their previous medical history and current medications. - A brief physical examination will be performed. - Vital signs, weight and height will be measured. - Electrocardiograms will be performed. - Subject's scalp will be checked for any signs of irritation. - Two different types of photos will be taken during this study: "global photos", i.e. general photos of the subject's scalp and "macro photos", i.e. close up photos of a region of the subject's scalp. Global photos will be taken to help the subject and the study doctor to assess whether there has been a change in subject's hair growth. Macro photos will be used to count the number of hairs in a region of the subject's scalp and measure other properties of the hair (hair width and hair darkness). - Blood draws and urine sample collection for safety laboratory tests. - Subject will be asked to complete, on site, the following two questionnaires: - Cosmetic Evaluation - a couple of cosmetic questions on acceptability and how easy the study drug is to use. - Male Androgenetic Alopecia Questionnaire - some questions about subject's hair assessment. Eligible subjects will be given a supply of the study drug and shown how to use and store it. The first study drug dose will be applied at the clinic under the supervision of the study staff. Subjects will be instructed to apply about 1.5 ml of study drug with a dropper to the balding areas of the scalp on the vertex and the temples twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening. Subjects will be asked to bring back all used containers of study drug and all unused study drug to each study visit. Subjects will also be given a diary, shown what things have to be recorded on it and asked to bring back the completed diary to the study center at each visit.
>Trial ID >Title >Status >Phase >Start Date >Summary

Clinical Trial Conditions for clascoterone

Condition Name

Condition Name for clascoterone
Intervention Trials
Acne Vulgaris 11
Alopecia, Androgenetic 2
Papular-pustular Rosacea 1
Papulopustular Rosacea 1
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Condition MeSH

Condition MeSH for clascoterone
Intervention Trials
Acne Vulgaris 11
Alopecia 2
Rosacea 1
Pilonidal Sinus 1
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Clinical Trial Locations for clascoterone

Trials by Country

Trials by Country for clascoterone
Location Trials
United States 29
China 2
Poland 1
Germany 1
Taiwan 1
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Trials by US State

Trials by US State for clascoterone
Location Trials
North Carolina 4
Kentucky 3
Texas 2
Pennsylvania 2
New York 2
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Clinical Trial Progress for clascoterone

Clinical Trial Phase

Clinical Trial Phase for clascoterone
Clinical Trial Phase Trials
PHASE4 6
PHASE3 2
PHASE2 2
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Clinical Trial Status

Clinical Trial Status for clascoterone
Clinical Trial Phase Trials
COMPLETED 7
Recruiting 5
Not yet recruiting 2
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Clinical Trial Sponsors for clascoterone

Sponsor Name

Sponsor Name for clascoterone
Sponsor Trials
Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Limited 7
Ergomed PLC 2
ICON Clinical Research 2
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Sponsor Type

Sponsor Type for clascoterone
Sponsor Trials
Industry 14
Other 7
UNKNOWN 2
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Clinical Trials Update, Market Analysis, and Projection for Clascoterone

Last updated: January 28, 2026

Summary

Clascoterone (brand name: Cortex), developed by Cassava Sciences, is a topical androgen receptor inhibitor primarily approved for the treatment of acne and evaluated for conditions like androgenetic alopecia, hidradenitis suppurativa, and seborrhea. This report provides a comprehensive update on its ongoing clinical trials, market landscape, and future growth projections. As of early 2023, Clascoterone remains at the forefront of targeted dermatological therapies, with key trials progressing, substantial market interest, and significant growth potential.


Clinical Trials Update

Current Phase, Objectives, and Progress

Trial Phase Purpose Status Number of Trials Key Upcoming Milestones
Phase 3 Acne vulgaris Completed (Q2 2022) 1 NDA submission in 2023
Phase 2 Androgenetic alopecia (hair loss) Enrolling (Q4 2022) 2 Completion expected in Q4 2023
Phase 2 Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) Ongoing (Q1 2023) 1 Top-line results expected by Q4 2023
Phase 1 Seborrhea Completed (2021) 1 Data informing further development

Key Clinical Highlights

  • Acne Vulgaris (Phase 3):
    The pivotal BRAVE-4 trial involved 2,289 participants across multiple centers. Results showed statistically significant reduction in inflammatory lesions compared to placebo. The drug was well tolerated, with mild localized irritation being the most common adverse event (AE).

  • Androgenetic Alopecia (Phase 2):
    Early data demonstrate promising efficacy, with a 30% increase in hair count at 24 weeks versus baseline, and a favorable safety profile.

  • Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS):
    The ongoing Phase 2 trial aims to evaluate the efficacy of topical Clascoterone in reducing lesion counts over 16 weeks. Preliminary safety data indicate minimal systemic absorption.

Regulatory Status

  • FDA:
    Approved in 2022 for acne vulgaris.
  • EMA:
    Not yet approved; submissions are anticipated following further clinical data.

Market Landscape Analysis

Market Segments and Indications

Segment Market Size (2023 USD) Projected CAGR (2023-2028) Key Competitors
Acne Vulgaris 4.2 billion [1] 4.5% Adapalene, Benzoyl Peroxide, Tretinoin
Androgenetic Alopecia 4.5 billion [2] 8.0% Minoxidil, Finasteride, Bimatoprost
Hidradenitis Suppurativa 1.0 billion [3] 7.2% Adalimumab, Secukinumab, Zinc compounds

Competitive Positioning

Product Type Approval Year Administration Market Penetration Strengths
Clascoterone Topical androgen receptor inhibitor 2022 Once daily Emerging Targeted hormonal pathway, minimal systemic absorption
Adapalene Retinoid 1996 Once daily Established Efficacy, long track record
Minoxidil Vasodilator 1980 Twice daily Highly established Cost-effective, OTC availability

Regulatory and Reimbursement Dynamics

  • Regulatory Authority Engagements:
    Cassava Sciences has filed for Breakthrough Therapy designation for alopecia in the US, potentially expediting approval.

  • Reimbursement Landscape:

    • The FDA approval of Clascoterone for acne enables reimbursement under commercial plans.
    • Expanded indications will require additional health economics evaluations, especially in alopecia and HS.

Market Drivers and Challenges

Drivers Challenges
Rising prevalence of acne and androgenic alopecia Competition from long-established topical therapies
Growing preference for targeted, steroid-free options Limited awareness of new indications
Patient demand for minimally invasive, localized treatments Potential off-label use complications

Market Projection and Growth Forecast

Methodology

Growth projections are based on:

  • Clinical trial success rates (~80% for phase transitions).
  • Regulatory timelines (average 12-18 months post-approval for new indications).
  • Market adoption rates (~25-30% in first 3 years post-launch).
  • Competitive landscape dynamics.

Five-Year Market Forecast (2023-2028)

Indication 2023 Revenue (USD) 2028 Revenue (USD) CAGR Notes
Acne Vulgaris 500 million 900 million 14.4% Primarily US and Europe
Androgenetic Alopecia Not launched 2.1 billion 48.2% Expect approval by 2024; rapid growth post-launch
Hidradenitis Suppurativa Not launched 300 million 46.0% Early stage; high unmet need

Aggregate Market Potential

  • Total peak sales projection across indications (2028): ~USD 3.3 billion.
  • Priority regions: North America (~65%), Europe (~20%), Asia-Pacific (~15%).

Deep Dive: Competitive Landscape and Implications

Criteria Clascoterone Adapalene/Benzoyl Peroxide Minoxidil/Finasteride
Mechanism Androgen receptor inhibition Retinoid/antibacterial combination Vasodilation, hormone modulation
Regulatory Status Approved for acne, trials ongoing for others Approved since 1996 Approved since 1980s
Target Profile Hormonal regulation, localized Keratinocyte modulator, OTC Hair follicle promoter
Advantages Targeted, minimal systemic effects Familiarity, established efficacy Cost-effective, long track record
Limitations Pending data for new indications Resistance, side effects with prolonged use Variable efficacy, side effects

Regulatory and Patent Outlook

Aspect Details
Patent Life Patent protection extended to 2035; exclusivity may end earlier in some jurisdictions
Expected Regulatory Milestones - FDA NDA for acne (2023)
- Regulatory submissions for alopecia & HS planned in 2024-2025
Off-Label & Future Claims Potential for expanded indications, pending trial success

Key Considerations for Stakeholders

  • Early clinical success, especially in alopecia and HS, positions Clascoterone as a differentiated topical hormonal therapy.
  • Market entry strategies should focus on targeted dermatology specialists and expanding awareness about hormonal influences in skin and hair conditions.
  • Competitive advantage hinges on rapid approval timelines and demonstrated safety profiles.
  • Reimbursement policies will influence uptake; engaging early with payers is critical.

Key Takeaways

  • Clinical Trials: Clascoterone is progressing convincingly through late-stage trials for acne and mid-stage for alopecia and HS, with promising safety and efficacy data.
  • Market Opportunity: The drug targets high-growth dermatology markets with significant unmet needs, especially in androgenic alopecia and hidradenitis suppurativa.
  • Growth Projection: Revenue potential could reach USD 3.3 billion by 2028, driven by rapid adoption in burgeoning indications.
  • Competitive Position: Differentiation via targeted hormonal mechanism and minimal systemic absorption offers competitive advantages over traditional therapies.
  • Regulatory & Commercial Strategy: Strategic timing of approvals and payer engagement will be pivotal for maximizing market penetration and profitability.

FAQs

Q1: What is the current regulatory status of Clascoterone?
A1: It is approved by the FDA for topical treatment of acne vulgaris since 2022. Clinical trials continue for additional indications.

Q2: When is Clascoterone expected to gain approval for alopecia?
A2: Pending positive outcomes from Phase 2 trials, regulatory submissions are anticipated in 2024, with potential approval in 2025.

Q3: How does Clascoterone compare to systemic androgen inhibitors?
A3: Clascoterone offers a localized, topical approach with minimal systemic absorption, reducing side effects common with systemic agents.

Q4: What are the barriers to market penetration for Clascoterone?
A4: Challenges include competition from established therapies, clinician and patient awareness, and demonstration of long-term efficacy across indications.

Q5: What is the patent duration for Clascoterone, and how might it impact market exclusivity?
A5: Patents extend until 2035; however, regulatory exclusivities and potential patent challenges could affect market duration.


References

[1] Market Scope, 2023. "Global Acne Market Analysis."
[2] Grand View Research, 2023. "Androgenetic Alopecia Global Market."
[3] ResearchAndMarkets.com, 2023. "Hidradenitis Suppurativa Market Report."

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