The U.S. Food and Drug Administration said that it approved Xiaflex, or collagenase clostridium histolyticum, as the first drug to treat a progressive hand disease known as Dupuytren's contracture, which can affect a person's ability to straighten and properly use their fingers. Xiaflex is manufactured by Auxilium Pharmaceuticals Inc. (AUXL), a specialty biopharmaceutical company based in Malvern, Penn.
Dupuytren's contracture affects the connective tissue found beneath the skin in the palm of the hand. Too much collagen can build up, forming thick, rope-like cords of tissue that can prevent the fingers from being able to relax and straighten normally. The disorder is most common in Caucasians and in men over age 50.
Xiaflex is injected directly into the collagen cord of the hand and should be administered only by a health care professional experienced with injections of the hand, because tendon ruptures may occur.
The most common adverse reactions in patients treated with Xiaflex were fluid build up, swelling, bleeding, and pain in the injected area. Although no serious allergic reactions have been observed, such a response would not be unexpected because this foreign protein could prompt an immune system reaction.
In one 66-patient study, 44 percent of those injected with Xiaflex were treated successfully, compared to 5 percent for patients who received a placebo. In a separate 306-patient study, 64 percent of patients given Xiaflex were treated successfully, compared to only 7 percent of patients receiving the placebo.
For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com
June 05, 2026 16:18 ET A busy week for economic news flow saw a slew of reports being released that reflected the trends in the U.S. labor market. In Europe, economic growth and inflation data gained attention as the European Central Bank and Bank of England head for policy session later in the month. In Asia, the monetary policy session of the Indian central bank was in focus as the country, a major oil importer, reels under the pressures of a weaker rupee and rising inflation.