The Rx Recap: July 13-18

Welcome to this week’s roundup of the most insightful and impactful articles from the sister publications of Dermatology Times, all under One MJH Life Sciences. Our network brings together expert perspectives, clinical advancements, and industry updates to keep clinicians informed and ahead of the curve. From cutting-edge treatments to practice management strategies, here’s a look at the top stories shaping the field of medicine.

Andrew Alexis, MD, MPH, highlights positive lebrikizumab-lbkz data for atopic dermatitis

New 24-week data from the ADmirable study reinforce the safety and efficacy of lebrikizumab-lbkz (EBGLYSS) in adolescents and adults with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD), including patients with skin of color. As reported by Contemporary Pediatrics, 78% of participants achieved EASI-75, and more than 88% of those with Fitzpatrick skin types V and VI showed similar improvement. Nearly two-thirds of patients also saw visible reduction in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation by week 24. Lead investigator Andrew Alexis, MD, MPH, emphasized the importance of this data in addressing treatment gaps among underrepresented populations, calling it a significant step forward in equitable, personalized AD care.

Tirzepatide plus hormone therapy boosts weight loss in menopausal women

A new study presented at ENDO 2025 suggests that combining tirzepatide with menopause hormone therapy (MHT) significantly boosts weight loss outcomes in overweight or obese postmenopausal women. As reported by Contemporary OB/GYN, women on both treatments saw an average 17% reduction in body weight, compared to 14% in those taking tirzepatide alone. Notably, 45% of combination users achieved more than 20% total body weight loss, versus just 18% of those using tirzepatide alone. The findings mark the first evidence supporting this dual-therapy approach and highlight its potential for personalized, effective weight management in postmenopausal women—an age group at increased risk for cardiometabolic complications. Complementary research published in JAMA Network Open further supports intentional weight loss in this population, linking it to reduced all-cause, cardiovascular, and cancer mortality.

FDA Approves Prefilled Syringe Presentation of GSK’s Shingrix for Shingles Prevention

The FDA has approved a new prefilled syringe presentation of Shingrix, GSK’s recombinant zoster vaccine, making administration simpler by eliminating the need for manual reconstitution. As reported by ContagionLive, the updated format retains the same proven composition—glycoprotein E antigen with the AS01B adjuvant—and is approved for adults aged 50 and older, as well as immunocompromised individuals 18 and up. With over 90 million doses already distributed since its 2017 launch, this new format aims to improve access and streamline vaccine delivery for the prevention of shingles and its complications, such as postherpetic neuralgia.

First long-acting flea and tick treatment is FDA-approved for dogs

The FDA has approved Bravecto Quantum (fluralaner extended-release injectable suspension) from Merck Animal Health, marking the first injectable flea and tick treatment for dogs to offer protection for up to 12 months. As reported by dvm360, the prescription-only product is indicated for dogs aged 6 months and older and provides year-long prevention against fleas and several tick species, including black-legged, American dog, and brown dog ticks, with 8-month coverage for lone star ticks. Already approved in over 50 countries, Bravecto Quantum is expected to launch in the US by August 2025. Merck emphasizes the convenience and compliance benefits of this long-acting option, though veterinarians are advised to review patient history due to potential neurologic and injection site reactions associated with isoxazoline products.

Five Advanced Therapeutics to Watch in 2H 2025

As the FDA continues to advance its oversight of cell and gene therapies, several key programs are progressing through the pipeline in the second half of 2025. CGTLive highlights 5 notable therapies to watch, including PRGN-2012 for recurrent respiratory papillomatosis and clemidsogene lanparvovec for Hunter syndrome—both under priority review with PDUFA dates set. Meanwhile, Nanoscope’s rolling BLA for sonpiretigene isteparvovec in retinitis pigmentosa is underway, and Capricor and Ultragenyx plan to resubmit applications for therapies targeting Duchenne cardiomyopathy and Sanfilippo syndrome following FDA feedback.

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