I interviewed Andy Sklawer, Co-Founder and COO of Brickell Biotech, Inc.  I’ve met Andy twice in person – once for coffee in Boulder and again in Washington, D.C. when I was a featured panelist speaker at the Patient-Focused Drug Development Meeting (PFDD) on Hyperhidrosis.

Tell me how you got started in pharmaceuticals/hyperhidrosis treatments.

Six years ago, a new chemical entity (NCE) for hyperhidrosis was brought to our attention. At the time, no other novel therapies were in development, and after we conducted extensive market research on the disease, we became very compelled by the opportunity and the potential to develop an NCE for the treatment of this life-altering condition.

Do you have anything in the pipeline treatment-wise that you might be able to tell us about?

Yes. A Phase 3 Long-Term Safety Study for hyperhidrosis is currently enrolling subjects (the “Argyle Study”).

[Update: As of 1.1.19, this hyperhidrosis clinical trial has been filled.]

We expect to initiate two pivotal Phase 3 clinical trials in the first half of next year.

A clinical trial for hyperhidrosis is now enrolling. The Argyle Study from Brickell Biotech, Inc. will test a treatment for axillary (underarm) hyperhidrosis.

What do you think is the biggest misconception regarding hyperhidrosis?

That it’s not a medical condition and that it’s someone’s fault they have hyperhidrosis. I hear this from people all the time. So many people never knew hyperhidrosis was a recognized medical term. Another misconception in the marketplace is that it’s “just sweat”  and doesn’t ruin people’s lives. Many think it’s just a cosmetic problem when in reality it has a substantial negative impact on those who live with it.

What advice would you give to those who are suffering from hyperhidrosis?

Talk about it. Tell your friends and family. Go to the International Hyperhidrosis Society’s website. Talk to a dermatologist. Talk to your physician. Finding a good therapist can help, too.

What advice would you give to medical professionals who see patients with hyperhidrosis?

Do your research and really learn about the disease and the available treatment options.

What’s your favorite inspirational quote?

If change needs to be made eventually, it needs to be made immediately.

Tell us about the worst sweating experience you’ve ever heard about.

The Patient-Focused Drug Development Meeting (PFDD) on Hyperhidrosis I attended in Washington, D.C. last year was full of so many memorable experiences and stories. So many impactful stories were shared on stage all at the same time. The consistent theme from all 85 individuals with Hh who spoke was that they have been suffering in isolation for years and are desperate for new, safe, effective and accessible treatment options for hyperhidrosis.

If you could tell those with hyperhidrosis only one thing, what would it be?

You’re not alone, and there are innovative companies, such as Brickell Biotech, that are focused on developing and commercializing novel therapeutics.

Anything else you’d like to add during Hyperhidrosis Awareness Month?

Hyperhidrosis awareness is greater than it’s ever been, and more than one company is paying attention and gets it. There are people with hearts out there who are committed to helping those who suffer.

Thanks for your time, Andy! I appreciate your dedication to helping those with hyperhidrosis live drier lives.