Farewell to Evolence
Just over one year ago, the United States FDA announced the approval of Evolence, a second-generation collagen filler derived from a porcine (pig) source. The product had a favorable safety profile and a steadily growing fan base among both patients and physicians due to a decreased incidence of post-procedure bruising and swelling. It has been used in other countries as far back as 2004.
Earlier this month, Ortho Dermatologics (a division of Johnson & Johnson) abruptly announced that Evolence will no longer be manufactured or marketed in the United States. Although no specific reasons were given by the company, I suspect the decision to discontinue the product was based on poor sales due to the slow economy. Last year, the Wall Street Journal quoted Johnson & Johnson consultant Kenneth Beer as saying, "they couldn't have picked a worse time [to enter the cosmetics market.]". In addition to a weak economy, competition in the cosmetics market is brutal, and I think it was difficult for a company that does not specialize in aesthetics to market and sell such a product effectively. Sales of Evolence were reportedly only $25 million over the past year, a figure far below expectations.
I have been a supporter of Evolence since the beginning and am disappointed to see it go. As a cosmetic dermatologist, I find it highly useful to have multiple filler options that can be tailored to individual patients. Evolence was a great product for patients who tend to metabolize hyaluronic acid products quickly, for those who cannot tolerate downtime, and for patients who bruise easily. It was also one of my favorite fillers for acne scars and other contour irregularities because it does not leave a bluish hue when placed superficially in the skin. My hope is that another company will decide to purchase the rights to Evolence and allow it to re-enter the U.S. market, perhaps under a different name. According to Israel's Globes Business Daily, Johnson & Johnson had purchased ColBar, the company which manufactures Evolence, for $159 million in late 2006 and was looking for a buyer in October for as little as $20 million.
In the meantime, Ortho Dermatologics will continue to provide support for Evolence regarding medical inquiries or reporting of adverse events.