NCT07144852 · Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Inc.
Study of Reformulated Levulan Kerastick Plus PDT for Actinic Keratosis on Upper Extremities
What this study is about
This Phase 3, randomly assigned, multi-center, evaluator-blind, vehicle-controlled study evaluates the effectiveness and safety of reformulated Levulan Kerastick (aminolevulinic acid HCl 20%) combined with photodynamic therapy (PDT) for field-directed treatment of actinic keratosis (AK) on the upper extremities.
View original scientific description
This Phase 3, randomized, multi-center, evaluator-blind, vehicle-controlled study evaluates the efficacy and safety of reformulated Levulan Kerastick (aminolevulinic acid HCl 20%) combined with photodynamic therapy (PDT) for field-directed treatment of actinic keratosis (AK) on the upper extremities. Approximately 260 adult patients with 4-8 mild to moderate AK lesions on one arm will be randomized to receive either active treatment or vehicle control, followed by exposure to blue light. During the study, up to 2 PDT sessions may be administered depending on the clearance of lesions. The primary endpoint is complete clearance rate (CCR) at Week 12. Secondary endpoints include AK clearance rate (AKCR), partial clearance, change in total lesion count and area, recurrence rate, cosmetic response, and patient satisfaction. Safety assessments include adverse events, local skin reactions, vital signs, and lab tests.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Patient is a male or non-pregnant female aged 18-85 years.
- Patient must have 4-8 mild to moderate actinic keratosis (AK) lesions (Olsen grade 1 or 2) in a single treatment area on their Index arm, each measuring up to 1 cm in diameter and spaced at least 1 cm apart. \[The treatment area should be approximately 25 cm², located on the extensor surface of only one of the upper extremities that is selected as the Index arm\]
- Patients must be in good general health, avoid sunbathing or tanning devices, and maintain a consistent skincare routine throughout the study.
- Patient is willing to stop using all topical products within the Treatment Area within 8 hours of a scheduled clinic visit with an efficacy evaluation.
- Women of childbearing potential must use highly effective contraception; men with such partners must use barrier methods unless surgically sterile.
Exclusion criteria
- Presence of Olsen grade 3 AK, untreated or suspicious skin cancers, or significant skin abnormalities (e.g., psoriasis, eczema) in the treatment area.
- Active herpes simplex infection or history of ≥2 outbreaks in the treatment area within the past year.
- History of cutaneous photosensitization, porphyria, photodermatosis, or hypersensitivity to porphyrins.
- Positive human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) test result, hepatitis B surface (HBS) antigen, or hepatitis C virus (HCV) test result
- Immunosuppressed status (e.g., HIV, organ transplant) or known coagulation defects.
- Use of specific topical therapies (e.g., retinoids, steroids, cryotherapy, PDT, chemical peels) on the treatment area within 2 days to 8 weeks prior to randomization.
- Recent use of certain systemic therapies (e.g., corticosteroids, immune-modulators, retinoids, cytotoxic drugs) within 6 weeks to 6 months prior to randomization.
- Recent use of hypericin or other phototoxic/photoallergic medications (e.g., tetracyclines, psoralenes, St. John's wort) within 8 weeks of randomization.
- Clinically significant or unstable illnesses, or history of alcohol/drug abuse in the past year.
- Pregnancy/lactation, recent or current participation in another clinical study, or any other condition deemed unsuitable by the Investigator.
Where
- Phoenix, Arizona
- Fremont, California
- Castle Rock, Colorado
- Aventura, Florida
- North Miami Beach, Florida
- Boise, Idaho
- Rolling Meadows, Illinois
- Plainfield, Indiana
- New Brighton, Minnesota
- Saint Joseph, Missouri
- Portland, Oregon
- Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania
And 8 more locations — see the full list below.
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Apr 22, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations