Endo International plc announces it has received US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of QWO (collagenase clostridium histolyticum-aaes) for the treatment of moderate to severe cellulite in the buttocks of adult women.

QWO is reportedly the first FDA-approved injectable treatment for cellulite, the company suggests, in a news release.

“Today’s FDA approval of QWO is a key achievement in the continued execution of Endo’s long-term strategy, especially as it relates to building our portfolio and capabilities for the future. As Endo embarks on an exciting new journey into medical aesthetics, we look forward to bringing this innovative treatment to market through our Endo Aesthetics organization.”

— Blaise Coleman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Endo

While cellulite is known to be a multifactorial condition, a primary contributing factor is the fibrous connective tissue, called the “fibrous septae,” which connect the skin perpendicularly to the fascia below. These fibrous septae tether the skin, drawing it downward and leading to a mattress-like appearance, commonly referred to as “dimpling.”

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When injected into the treatment area, QWO is thought to release the fibrous septae enzymatically by specifically targeting Types 1 and 3 collagen, which may result in smoothing of the skin and an improved appearance of cellulite, the release explains.

“Endo recognized a significant unmet need for an effective and non-invasive injectable treatment for cellulite, which led us to conduct the largest clinical trials in the history of cellulite investigation in the United States. Supported by rigorous research, testing and development processes, we are proud to have received FDA approval of the first injectable treatment for cellulite in the buttocks and we look forward to delivering QWO to the aesthetics community and their adult female patients.”

— Matthew Davis, MD, RPh, Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer of Endo

Side effects of QWO included injection site bruising, pain, areas of hardness and itching in the treatment area, according to the company.

QWO is expected to be available throughout the United States at aesthetic healthcare practitioner’s offices starting in Spring 2021, according to the news release.

Endo Aesthetics LLC, headquartered in Malvern, Pa, is an affiliate of Endo International plc.

[Source: Endo International plc]