FDA approves new topical scar treatment

PETALUMA, Calif. — The Food and Drug Administration has approved a new topical drug for treating scars made by Oculus Innovative Sciences, the drug maker said Wednesday.

The FDA has approved Microcyn scar-management hydrogel, used to treat scars resulting from burns, surgery and trauma wounds. Oculus and a partnering company, Quinnova Pharmaceuticals, intend to start selling the drug in the first half of next year.

"We have known for years that there has been a practitioner demand for an efficacious and safe prescription treatment to manage hypertrophic and keloid scarring," Quinnova CEO Jeffrey Day said. "Having seen firsthand the compelling impact that our Microcyn-based technology products have had on the management of conditions such as atopic dermatitis, we are equally excited about its potential as well in managing scars."