Table of Contents
- What is Patidegib?
- Target Condition: Gorlin Syndrome and Basal Cell Carcinomas
- How Patidegib Works
- Clinical Trial Details
- Eligibility Criteria
- Potential Benefits
- Safety and Side Effects
What is Patidegib?
Patidegib is a medication being studied for the treatment of basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) in patients with Gorlin syndrome. It is formulated as a gel containing 2% of the active ingredient, patidegib hydrochloride isopropanolate. This gel is designed to be applied directly to the skin (topically) on the face[1].
Patidegib is also known by its alternative name, IPI-926 hydrochloride isopropanolate[1]. It belongs to a class of drugs called Hedgehog inhibitors, which work by blocking a specific cellular pathway involved in the development of basal cell carcinomas.
Target Condition: Gorlin Syndrome and Basal Cell Carcinomas
Gorlin syndrome, also known as Gorlin-Goltz syndrome or basal cell nevus syndrome, is a rare genetic condition characterized by the development of multiple basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) on the skin[1]. People with this syndrome have a mutation in the PTCH1 gene, which makes them prone to developing these skin cancers, especially on the face[1].
Basal cell carcinomas are a type of skin cancer that develops in the basal cells, which are found in the lower part of the epidermis (the outermost layer of skin). While BCCs are usually slow-growing and rarely spread to other parts of the body, they can cause significant local damage and disfigurement if left untreated[1].
How Patidegib Works
Patidegib is a Hedgehog pathway inhibitor. The Hedgehog signaling pathway is a complex system of proteins that play a crucial role in cell growth and differentiation. In Gorlin syndrome, this pathway is overactive due to the PTCH1 gene mutation, leading to the formation of multiple BCCs[1].
By inhibiting the Hedgehog pathway, Patidegib aims to reduce the formation of new BCCs and potentially shrink existing ones. The gel formulation allows for direct application to affected areas on the face, potentially minimizing systemic side effects compared to oral medications[1].
Clinical Trial Details
A Phase 3 clinical trial is currently underway to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Patidegib Gel 2% in patients with Gorlin syndrome[1]. Here are some key details about the trial:
- It is a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled study[1].
- Participants are randomly assigned to either Patidegib Gel 2% or a vehicle (placebo) gel[1].
- The gel is to be applied twice daily to the face for up to 12 months[1].
- The main goal is to assess how well Patidegib Gel 2% reduces the number of new BCCs compared to the vehicle gel[1].
Eligibility Criteria
To participate in this clinical trial, patients must meet certain criteria. Some key inclusion criteria are:
- Age 18 years or older[1]
- Confirmed PTCH1 gene mutation[1]
- At least 10 BCCs on the face at the start of the study[1]
- Willingness to avoid other topical medications on the face during the study[1]
Some exclusion criteria include:
- Recent use of treatments that might interfere with the study[1]
- Known hypersensitivity to any ingredients in the gel[1]
- Uncontrolled systemic disease[1]
- Treatment for invasive cancer within the past 5 years (with some exceptions)[1]
Potential Benefits
If proven effective, Patidegib Gel 2% could offer several benefits for patients with Gorlin syndrome:
- Reduction in the number of new BCCs developing on the face[1]
- Potential shrinkage or resolution of existing BCCs[1]
- Improvement in quality of life related to skin cancer[1]
- A non-invasive treatment option that could reduce the need for surgical interventions[1]
Safety and Side Effects
The clinical trial is designed to assess the safety and tolerability of Patidegib Gel 2% when applied twice daily for 12 months[1]. Potential side effects and safety concerns will be closely monitored throughout the study. These may include:
- Local skin reactions at the application site[1]
- Any adverse events or serious adverse events occurring during the trial[1]
- Changes in dermal safety and local tolerability as assessed by the investigator[1]
It’s important to note that as this is an investigational treatment, not all potential side effects may be known at this time. Patients participating in the trial will be closely monitored for any unexpected reactions or safety concerns[1].



