Turn Therapeutics Receives FDA Approval for Protego Antimicrobial Wound Dressing to Enhance Dermatological Care

On October 16, 2019, VCBeat (WeChat ID: vcbeat) learned from foreign media reports that medical device and pharmaceutical company Turn Therapeutics announced that its antimicrobial wound dressing, Protego, had received FDA approval for market launch, providing antibacterial protection for wounds.

Turn Therapeutics, founded in 2015 and headquartered in Los Angeles, USA, is a medical device and pharmaceutical company. The company is dedicated to developing novel anti-infective drugs and wound care products for the treatment of conditions such as atopic dermatitis, onychomycosis, and herpetic blepharitis.

Wound dressings are combinations of ointments and gauze, available in various types, and are primarily used for the treatment of sores and wounds. Passive dressings, also known as traditional dressings, cover the wound surface and absorb exudate, providing effective protection to the wound bed. Interactive dressings engage in multiple forms of interaction with the wound, such as absorbing exudate and toxic substances while allowing gas exchange, thereby creating a favorable environment for wound healing. Bioactive dressings, also referred to as occlusive dressings, feature a barrier outer layer that prevents environmental microbial intrusion and reduces the risk of cross-infection at the wound site.

Turn Therapeutics has developed Protego based on its proprietary PermaFusion technology. Protego is a sterile, antimicrobial, disposable gauze dressing with a petroleum jelly base. This dressing offers the same gentle feel as traditional gauze dressings while incorporating innovative enhancements. Protego provides superior antimicrobial efficacy, effectively preventing bacterial and fungal invasion, making it suitable for the management of both acute and chronic wounds.

Protego contains Hexagen, an FDA-approved hydrogel wound dressing with a long history of clinical application in leading medical institutions across the United States. This dressing is non-irritating, non-cytotoxic, and non-allergenic, allowing for long-term use by patients. The Hexagen dressing prevents wounds from drying out or becoming macerated, avoids adhesion to the wound bed and subsequent trauma upon removal, and effectively combats known pathogens.

PermaFusion is the first technology to combine liquids with a petrolatum base using liquid suspension technology, enabling active ingredients to remain suspended in nanodroplets for extended periods. PermaFusion uses a minimal amount of petrolatum, yet significantly enhances bioavailability while substantially reducing side effects.

In addition, Turn Therapeutics has developed a range of dermatological treatments and wound care products based on its PermaFusion technology. For instance, AtopX Lotion, which has received FDA approval for market launch, is indicated to alleviate discomforts such as pruritus and burning sensations, treat conditions including atopic dermatitis and eczema, and promote wound healing.

Bradley Burnham, Founder and CEO of Turn Therapeutics, stated, “Protego is a disruptive innovative material that aligns with nearly a century of standards for acute and chronic wound care and postoperative care. This wound dressing offers superior antimicrobial efficacy compared to traditional gauze dressings, providing clinicians with a novel approach to wound management. We believe the clinical application of Protego will transform the standard of care.”

(Compiled by Xu Xiaoxue)