By Fineline Cube 
Boao Super Hospital in Hainan last week successfully introduced Xiaflex (collagenase clostridium histolyticum), a nonsurgical treatment option for Peyronie’s disease (PD). Developed by BioSpecifics Technologies in collaboration with Auxilium Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (acquired by Endo International plc), Xiaflex represents a significant advancement in the treatment landscape for PD patients.
Understanding Peyronie’s Disease
Peyronie’s disease, also known as chronic penile cavernositis, is characterized by the formation of fibrous plaques in the tunica albuginea of the penis. These plaques can extend into erectile tissue, causing painful erections, penile curvature, and in severe cases, erectile dysfunction. Current treatments in China primarily involve symptomatic medication or surgical intervention. However, drug therapies often show limited efficacy, while surgical procedures may potentially worsen erectile dysfunction. This lack of definitive treatment options has significantly impacted patients’ quality of life.
Mechanism of Xiaflex
Xiaflex is a combination of bacterial collagenases, which are proteases that specifically hydrolyze collagen in its native triple-helical conformation under physiological conditions. Through intralesional injection, this treatment directly degrades Peyronie’s plaques. Following plaque dissolution, patients experience improved penile curvature and reduced deformity, offering a non-invasive therapeutic approach distinct from conventional surgical methods.
Global Approval and Market Presence
Initially approved in the U.S. in February 2010, Xiaflex received U.S. approval for PD indication in February 2013. It was approved in the European Union as a PD treatment in February 2011, where it is marketed as Xiapex by Sobi.-Fineline Info & Tech