Boston Business Journal May 10, 2004

 

Anika to begin Phase III trial for wrinkles treatment

Anika Therapeutics inc. in Woburn has started a late-stage clinical trial to see if its new treatment for facial wrinkles will work as well as or better than collagen.

Participants in the trial will have Anika's hyaluronic acid treatment injected into half of their faces, with the other half using a collagen product.

Hyaluronic acid is a substance that occurs naturally in the body, according to the company. Collagen is found in skin, cartilage and bone. Bovine collagen is often used for cosmetic enhancement to treat facial wrinkles, scars or make lips look larger.

The Phase III trial will test the product's safety and effectiveness. If successful, Anika will then apply to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for approval.