NeoStrata Co, Inc (PRINCETON, New Jersey), a therapeutic and cosmetic dermatological products company, announced findings from an ongoing 12-week study, conducted at the Massachusetts General and Brigham and Women's Hospitals in Boston, that demonstrates benefits of a novel, nonprescription topically applied LCD (coal tar) solution (Psorent™) versus calcipotriol cream (Dovonex^®) in treatment of moderate plaque psoriasis. The trial is evaluating categorical and mean changes in PASI (Psoriasis Area Severity Index) improvement, Physician's Global Assessment scores, and patient self-assessment.

The findings represent interim results evaluating the safety and efficacy of the 15% LCD in 48 patients. Patient satisfaction with the aesthetics and ease of use of the LCD is high, with 86% of patients expressing an interest in continuing to use the medication after the study's completion.

The LCD solution outperformed the calcipotriol cream in the percentage of patients achieving PASI 75 (30%); no patients in the calcipotriol group achieved PASI 75, a statistically significant finding, (P <.05). More patients using LCD solution (61%) achieved PASI 50 than patients using calcipotriol (40%, P >.10). PGA scores over the 12-week study improved for both treatment groups, at which time, the LCD treatment group improved 45% relative to baseline versus the calcipotriol treatment group improvement of 29%,(P = .054). After 2 weeks, the LCD solution reduced self-assessed redness/irritation, itch, and burning significantly faster than the calcipotriol cream (P <.05), and was more effective at reducing redness/irritation (P <.05). Both treatments significantly reduced all graded parameters relative to baseline at weeks 4, 8, and 12.

The founders of NeoStrata, Drs. Van Scott and Ruey Yu, discovered alpha hydroxyacids and their beneficial effects on skin. Dr. Van Scott has received numerous prestigious awards, including The Albert Lasker Award (sometimes referred to as an "American Nobel prize"). Dr. Yu is the recipient of the Foundation for Ichthyosis and Related Skin Types (FIRST) 2008 Testimonial Award Dinner, which honored both doctors for their significant contributions in the treatment of ichthyosis.