In a major blow to Sun Pharma’s research arm, SPARC (Sun Pharma Advanced Research Company), its shares plummeted 19% to Rs 158 on June 4 after its much-anticipated drug SCD-044 failed to deliver positive results in Phase 2 clinical trials. The drug, meant for treating psoriasis and atopic dermatitis, was being watched closely by investors and analysts alike, and its failure has triggered concerns over SPARC’s specialty pipeline.
SCD-044, also known by its generic name Vibozilimod, was seen as a high-potential candidate for SPARC, which focuses on breakthrough treatments in areas like inflammatory diseases, oncology, and neurodegeneration. However, in a stock exchange filing, the company revealed that the drug had not met its primary goals in either of the two studies it underwent.
Trial Failure and Future Uncertainty
The two Phase 2 studies—SOLARES PsO for psoriasis and SOLARES AD for atopic dermatitis—did not achieve the expected benchmarks. The primary endpoint was defined as at least a 75% improvement in PASI (Psoriasis Area and Severity Index) or EASI (Eczema Area and Severity Index) scores by the 16th week of treatment. Falling short of these standards, SPARC confirmed that it would now discontinue further development of SCD-044.
Following the results, both SPARC and Sun Pharma stated they would reassess the broader future of the compound. This move reflects a strategic pause as the companies evaluate the cost-benefit equation of advancing a molecule that failed to deliver its expected efficacy.
Financial Strain Compounds Setback
The drug failure adds pressure on SPARC’s already stretched financials. For the fourth quarter of FY25, the company posted an income of Rs 20.96 crore, marking a 38.8% rise over the previous quarter. Despite this, losses widened significantly—SPARC reported a pre-tax loss of Rs 105.41 crore, up from Rs 79.44 crore in Q3. The company also saw its total expenditure climb 33.7% to Rs 126.37 crore from Rs 94.54 crore.
With the shelving of SCD-044, investors are likely to keep a close watch on SPARC’s next strategic moves and pipeline priorities. The failure of such a high-profile candidate has led to renewed questions about the viability and timelines of other experimental drugs in its portfolio.
