Viatris Fails to Meet Primary Endpoint in Blepharitis Treatment Study, Considers Next Steps.

Viatris' Phase 3 trial for pimecrolimus 0.3% ophthalmic ointment for blepharitis failed to meet its primary endpoint, and the company is considering next steps. Analysts forecast an average target price of $14.16, with a 52.72% upside from the current price of $9.27. The average brokerage recommendation is 2.7, indicating a "Hold" status.

Viatris Inc. (Nasdaq: VTRS), a global healthcare company, reported on July 18, 2025, that its Phase 3 clinical trial of pimecrolimus 0.3% ophthalmic ointment (MR-139) for blepharitis did not meet its primary endpoint. The trial, which involved 477 participants, aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the ointment in removing eyelid debris, a major symptom of blepharitis. However, the study did not achieve complete resolution of debris after six weeks of twice-daily dosing [1].

The company's Chief R&D Officer, Philippe Martin, stated that the team is evaluating the appropriate next steps for the Phase 3 program, which may include revising the planned additional Phase 3 study. Despite the setback, Viatris remains focused on delivering novel therapies like Tyrvaya® and RYZUMVI®, and it recently reported positive top-line results from two other Phase 3 studies: LYNX-2 and VEGA-3, which addressed keratorefractive problems and presbyopia, respectively [1].

The news has led to a 3.6% drop in Viatris' stock price, with shares trading down to $8.89 before the market opened on July 18, 2025 [2]. Analysts have forecast an average target price of $14.16, indicating a 52.72% upside from the current price of $9.27. The average brokerage recommendation is 2.7, suggesting a "Hold" status [3].

Investors and financial professionals should remain cautious but optimistic. While the failure to meet the primary endpoint in the MR-139 trial is a setback, Viatris' pipeline still holds promise, particularly with the positive results from other Phase 3 studies. The company's long-term focus on treating anterior segment disorders in ophthalmology remains intact, and management has indicated a commitment to addressing unmet medical needs in this area [1].

References:
[1] https://newsroom.viatris.com/2025-07-18-Viatris-Provides-Update-on-Phase-3-Study-of-MR-139-for-Blepharitis
[2] https://finance.yahoo.com/news/viatris-stock-slides-phase-3-210122055.html
[3] https://www.gurufocus.com/news/2988312/viatris-stock-slides-after-phase-3-blepharitis-drug-trial-misses-key-target