Letibotulinumtoxin-A

LetibotulinumtoxinA (LETYBO) — Drug Profile | TrialistMD
TRIALISTMD
BLA 761225
Acetylcholine release inhibitor · Neuromuscular blocking agent

LetibotulinumtoxinA

LETYBO (letibotulinumtoxinA-wlbg)
An acetylcholine release inhibitor and neuromuscular blocking agent (botulinum toxin type A; 900 kDa) indicated for the temporary improvement in the appearance of moderate to severe glabellar lines associated with corrugator and/or procerus muscle activity in adult patients. Approved February 29, 2024 via BLA 351(a).
Applicant
Hugel, Inc.
BLA Number
761225
Approval Date
February 29, 2024
Review Division
DDD (OII)
IND Number
IND 123178

Drug Profile

Drug Class
BTX-A
Botulinum toxin type A; SNAP25 cleavage
Molecular Weight
900 kDa
Noncovalent multimeric complex; 6 proteins
Dosage Form
50/100 U
White freeze-dried powder; single-dose vial
Route
IM
Intramuscular; 5 sites; 20 Units total

Drug Identification

Established / Proper NameletibotulinumtoxinA-wlbg
Proposed Trade NameLETYBO
Pharmacologic ClassAcetylcholine release inhibitor; neuromuscular blocking agent
Molecular Weight~900 kDa (noncovalent multimeric complex; 6 proteins)
Source OrganismClostridium botulinum (fermentation)
Toxin TypeBotulinum toxin type A
Active IngredientletibotulinumtoxinA-wlbg
Inactive IngredientsAlbumin human; sodium chloride
Marketed Name Outside USBotulax® (Korea; marketed since 2010)
US License Number2237
ManufacturerHugel, Inc., 61-20 Sinbuk-ro, Sinbuk-eup, Chuncheon, 24206 Korea

Mechanism of Action

Neuromuscular Blockade via SNAP25 Cleavage: letibotulinumtoxinA blocks cholinergic transmission at the neuromuscular junction by inhibiting acetylcholine release. After IM injection, the toxin is internalized into the nerve terminal, translocates into the neuronal cytosol, and cleaves SNAP25 — a protein essential for synaptic vesicle docking and acetylcholine release — producing a dose-dependent decrease in muscle function.
Primary TargetSNAP25 (Synaptosomal-Associated Protein 25)
ActionPrevents ACh vesicle membrane fusion; blocks cholinergic NMJ transmission
Mechanism (cellular)Internalization → translocation to neuronal cytosol → SNAP25 cleavage
Onset of EffectGradual; dose-dependent decrease in muscle function
Recovery MechanismNeurotoxin degradation + axonal sprouting → muscle reinnervation → slow reversal
Preclinical ComparatorOnset and duration of paralysis comparable to onabotulinumtoxinA at all timepoints (3, 7, 14, 21, 28 days) and doses (2, 4, 8 U/animal) in rat model (Study CP-001)

Approved Indication

FDA-Approved IndicationTemporary improvement in the appearance of moderate to severe glabellar lines associated with corrugator and/or procerus muscle activity in adult patients
PopulationAdults (18–75 years in trials)
Line SeverityModerate to severe at maximum frown (GLS ≥2)
Not Approved ForSpasticity or any conditions other than glabellar lines
Pediatric UseSafety and effectiveness not established in pediatric patients; full waiver granted (extremely low prevalence of glabellar lines in pediatric population)

Competitive Landscape — FDA-Approved BoNT Products for Glabellar Lines

Product (INN)FDA ApprovalDosingPivotal Efficacy (responder rate)Key Safety
BOTOX Cosmetic (onabotulinumtoxinA)200220 U IM; 5 sites × 4 UStudy 1: 61%; Study 2: 46%Spread of toxin; dysphagia; breathing difficulties
Dysport (abobotulinumtoxinA)200950 U IM; 5 sites × 10 UGL1: 55%; GL2: 52%; GL3: 60%Spread of toxin; dysphagia; breathing difficulties
Xeomin (incobotulinumtoxinA)201120 U IM; 5 sites × 4 UGL1: 60%; GL2: 48%Spread of toxin; dysphagia; breathing difficulties
Jeuveau (prabotulinumtoxinA-xvfs)201920 U IM; 5 sites × 4 UEV-001: 67%; EV-002: 70%Spread of toxin; dysphagia; breathing difficulties
LETYBO (letibotulinumtoxinA-wlbg)202420 U IM; 5 sites × 4 UBLESS I: 47%; II: 49%; III: 65%Spread of toxin; standard BTX-A warnings

Source: FDA Medical Review BLA 761225 (Ref ID 4960826), Table 1. Physician’s Inserts from Drugs@FDA.

Study Population Overview

Three Pivotal Phase 3 Trials (BLESS I, II, III): Identically designed, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies. Total randomized: 1,276 subjects (957 LETYBO, 319 placebo); Full Analysis Set (FAS): 1,271 subjects (954 LETYBO, 317 placebo). Each study comprised a double-blind phase followed by an open-label extension phase.
BLESS I (NCT02677298)
708
531 LETYBO / 177 Placebo
CPH-301-201030
US (9 sites), Germany, Poland (9 sites) — 18 centers
BLESS II (NCT02677805)
213
160 LETYBO / 53 Placebo
CPH-302-201030
US — 6 centers
BLESS III (NCT03985982)
355
266 LETYBO / 89 Placebo
CPH-303-201400
US (6 sites), Austria (1 site) — 7 centers

Subject Disposition

ParameterBLESS I (Letybo / Placebo)BLESS II (Letybo / Placebo)BLESS III (Letybo / Placebo)
Randomized531 / 177160 / 53266 / 89
Received Treatment529 (99.6%) / 175 (98.9%)160 (100%) / 53 (100%)266 (100%) / 89 (100%)
FAS (primary analysis)528 / 175160 / 53266 / 89
Completed Double-Blind Phase500 (94.2%) / 160 (90.4%)147 (91.9%) / 48 (90.6%)249 (93.6%) / 84 (94.4%)
Completed Entire Study456 (85.9%) / 145 (81.9%)136 (85.0%) / 43 (81.1%)227 (85.3%) / 80 (89.9%)

Source: FDA Medical Review BLA 761225 (Ref ID 4960826), Table 5. Non-responder imputation for FAS.

Baseline Demographics (FAS)

CharacteristicBLESS I
Letybo (N=528) / Placebo (N=175)
BLESS II
Letybo (N=160) / Placebo (N=53)
BLESS III
Letybo (N=266) / Placebo (N=89)
Mean Age (years)49.3 / 48.752.0 / 52.452.2 / 49.4
Median Age (years)49 / 4952.5 / 5153 / 52
Age Range (years)19–75 / 21–7427–75 / 29–7321–75 / 22–75
18–64 years462 (87.5%) / 157 (89.7%)141 (88.1%) / 45 (84.9%)233 (87.6%) / 81 (91.0%)
65–75 years66 (12.5%) / 18 (10.3%)19 (11.9%) / 8 (15.1%)33 (12.4%) / 8 (9.0%)
Female483 (91.5%) / 155 (88.6%)150 (93.8%) / 45 (84.9%)248 (93.2%) / 80 (89.9%)
Male45 (8.5%) / 20 (11.4%)10 (6.3%) / 8 (15.1%)18 (6.8%) / 9 (10.1%)
White482 (91.3%) / 153 (87.4%)153 (95.6%) / 50 (94.3%)236 (88.7%) / 79 (88.8%)
Black or African American33 (6.3%) / 18 (10.3%)3 (1.9%) / 1 (1.9%)25 (9.4%) / 7 (7.9%)
Asian7 (1.3%) / 3 (1.7%)2 (1.3%) / 1 (1.9%)4 (1.5%) / 1 (1.1%)
Not Hispanic or Latino497 (94.1%) / 166 (94.9%)126 (78.8%) / 45 (84.9%)200 (75.2%) / 67 (75.3%)
Hispanic or Latino25 (4.7%) / 8 (4.6%)33 (20.6%) / 7 (13.2%)66 (24.8%) / 22 (24.7%)
Region: US268 (50.8%) / 95 (54.3%)160 (100%) / 53 (100%)225 (84.6%) / 79 (88.8%)
Region: EU260 (49.2%) / 80 (45.7%)0 / 041 (15.4%) / 10 (11.2%)

Source: FDA Medical Review BLA 761225 (Ref ID 4960826), Table 7. EU: Germany and Poland in BLESS I; Austria in BLESS III.

Baseline Disease Characteristics (FAS)

CharacteristicBLESS I
Letybo / Placebo
BLESS II
Letybo / Placebo
BLESS III
Letybo / Placebo
GLS-I = 3 (Severe) at max frown384 (72.7%) / 133 (76.0%)112 (70.0%) / 37 (69.8%)202 (75.9%) / 67 (75.3%)
GLS-I = 2 (Moderate) at max frown144 (27.3%) / 42 (24.0%)48 (30.0%) / 16 (30.2%)64 (24.1%) / 22 (24.7%)
GLS-S = 3 (Severe) at max frown401 (75.9%) / 121 (69.1%)121 (75.6%) / 42 (79.2%)196 (73.7%) / 64 (71.9%)
GLS-S = 2 (Moderate) at max frown127 (24.1%) / 54 (30.9%)39 (24.4%) / 11 (20.8%)70 (26.3%) / 25 (28.1%)
Previous Use of Botulinum Toxin: No345 (65.3%) / 116 (66.3%)105 (65.6%) / 42 (79.2%)169 (63.5%) / 53 (59.6%)
Previous Use of Botulinum Toxin: Yes183 (34.7%) / 59 (33.7%)55 (34.4%) / 11 (20.8%)97 (36.5%) / 36 (40.4%)

Source: FDA Medical Review BLA 761225 (Ref ID 4960826), Table 8. A higher proportion of subjects had severe (74%) vs moderate (26%) glabellar lines. Demographics were generally balanced across treatment groups.

Study Design

DesignRandomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled; two-part: double-blind phase + open-label extension
Randomization3:1 (LETYBO : placebo) at Day 0 (baseline)
Double-Blind PhaseSingle injection session with evaluations at Weeks 1, 2, 4, 8, and re-evaluation visits (starting Week 12, every 4 weeks)
Open-Label ExtensionUp to 3 additional retreatments with 20 U LETYBO over 48 weeks; minimum 3-month interval between treatments; up to 4 total treatment cycles
Total Study DurationUp to 60 weeks
Treatment DurationAt least 12 weeks per cycle (until retreatment eligibility)
Injection Sites5 sites: 2 per corrugator supercilii muscle (inferomedial + superior middle), 1 in procerus muscle
Dose (active)4 Units per site × 5 sites = 20 Units total
Volume per Site0.1 mL
Primary Analysis PopulationFull Analysis Set (FAS): all randomized subjects receiving ≥1 injection; ITT principle
Supportive PopulationPer Protocol Set (PPS): FAS minus significant protocol deviations; ~84–90% Letybo, ~85–91% placebo
Statistical MethodCochran-Mantel-Haenszel (CMH) test stratified by study center; Mantel-Haenszel common risk difference and 95% CI (reviewer-corrected)
Missing Data HandlingPrimary: non-responder imputation (NRI); Sensitivity: observed values only, LOCF, worst-case imputation

Glabellar Line Scale (GLS)

Primary Endpoint Instrument: 4-point grading scale assessed independently by both investigator (GLS-I) and subject (GLS-S) at maximum frown. The same scale and descriptors used for both assessors. The PI also refers to this scale as the Facial Wrinkle Scale (FWS) in the medical review.
GLS ScoreDescriptorLine Severity at Maximum Frown
0 — NoneSmooth areaNo visible lines between the eyebrows
1 — MildShallow linesOne or more thin or shallow lines
2 — ModerateMedium depthOne or more lines of medium depth
3 — SevereDeep/pronouncedOne or more deep and pronounced lines

Source: FDA Medical Review BLA 761225 (Ref ID 4960826), Table 4. GLS-I = Investigator assessment; GLS-S = Subject (patient) assessment.

Key Inclusion / Exclusion Criteria

Key Inclusion Criteria

  • Healthy adults aged 18–75 years
  • Moderate to severe glabellar lines at maximum frown (GLS ≥2) by both investigator and subject
  • Ability to substantially lessen glabellar lines by physically spreading them apart
  • Corrugator and/or procerus muscle activity contributing to glabellar lines

Key Exclusion Criteria

  • Ptosis (drooping eyelids or eyebrows)
  • Deep dermal scarring in treatment area
  • Inability to substantially lessen glabellar lines by spreading
  • Marked facial asymmetry
  • Excessive dermatochalasis
  • Surgical alterations to facial anatomy
  • Active infection at injection site(s)
  • Neuromuscular disorders (ALS, myasthenia gravis, Lambert-Eaton)
  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding

Supportive Studies

StudyDesignPopulation / CountryNPurpose
HG-11-01Double-blind, randomized, active-controlled (Botox comparator)Mod-severe glabellar lines; 18–75 yrs; Korea272Safety/efficacy (Korea approval); supportive safety data for BLA
HG-13-02 (HG-12-02)Post-marketing surveillanceMod-severe glabellar lines; 18–65 yrs; Korea815Additional post-marketing safety data

Source: FDA Medical Review BLA 761225 (Ref ID 4960826), Table 3. Phase 3 dose selection for BLESS studies was supported by HG-11-01 results demonstrating similar efficacy to onabotulinumtoxinA (Botox) at 20 Units.

Primary Efficacy Endpoint

Primary Endpoint Definition (Week 4): Proportion of subjects achieving a GLS score of 0 or 1 (none or mild) AND an improvement of ≥2 points from baseline at maximum frown, assessed concurrently by BOTH the investigator (GLS-I) AND the subject (GLS-S). FDA statistical reviewers termed this the “multi-component responder rate.” Analysis method: CMH test stratified by study center (two-sided p=0.05); Mantel-Haenszel common risk difference with 95% CI.

Primary Endpoint Results at Week 4 (FAS, NRI)

StudyLETYBO Multi-component Responder n/N (%)Placebo n/N (%)Treatment Difference (MH)95% CIp-value
BLESS I246/528 (46.6%)0/175 (0%)47.0%(42.7%, 51.4%)<0.0001
BLESS II78/160 (48.8%)1/53 (1.9%)45.1%(36.0%, 54.3%)<0.0001
BLESS III172/266 (64.7%)0/89 (0%)65.2%(59.3%, 71.2%)<0.0001

Source: FDA Medical Review BLA 761225 (Ref ID 4960826), Table 9. Reviewer analysis using Mantel-Haenszel stratified by study center. NRI for missing data. All three studies met pre-specified primary endpoint; results statistically superior to placebo. PI (Ref ID 5337801) reports Newcombe CIs (unstratified); reviewer-corrected MH CIs shown here.

Multi-component responder rate (GLS 0/1 + ≥2-point improvement at max frown, Week 4). Source: FDA Medical Review BLA 761225 (Ref ID 4960826), Table 9.

Individual Components of Primary Endpoint (Week 4)

ComponentBLESS I
LETYBO / Placebo
BLESS II
LETYBO / Placebo
BLESS III
LETYBO / Placebo
Investigator Assessment (GLS-I 0 or 1; ≥2-pt improvement)348/528 (65.9%) / 1/175 (0.6%)120/160 (75.0%) / 1/53 (1.9%)209/266 (78.6%) / 1/89 (1.1%)
Subject Assessment (GLS-S 0 or 1; ≥2-pt improvement)290/528 (54.9%) / 0/175 (0%)83/160 (51.9%) / 1/53 (1.9%)183/266 (68.8%) / 0/89 (0%)

Source: FDA Medical Review BLA 761225 (Ref ID 4960826), Table 9. Investigator assessment responder rates were 10–23% higher than subject assessment rates in the LETYBO arm across studies.

Sensitivity Analyses — Primary Endpoint

Analysis MethodBLESS I
LETYBO / Placebo
BLESS II
LETYBO / Placebo
BLESS III
LETYBO / Placebo
Primary (NRI)46.6% / 0%48.8% / 1.9%64.7% / 0%
Observed Values Only47.2% / 0%50.6% / 2.0%65.2% / 0%
LOCF47.2% / 0%50.6% / 1.9%64.7% / 0%
Worst-Case Imputation46.6% / 4.0%48.8% / 9.4%64.7% / 3.4%

Source: FDA Medical Review BLA 761225 (Ref ID 4960826), Tables 11–13. All sensitivity analyses showed consistent results; missing data had limited impact on efficacy conclusions due to large effect size and small proportion of subjects with missing data (0.8–3.8%).

Secondary Efficacy Endpoints (FAS)

Hierarchical Testing (BLESS I and II): Pre-specified hierarchical procedure. BLESS I: procedure did not stop until SE4 (Week 20; p=0.169). BLESS II: procedure stopped after SE1 (Week 12; p=0.173). BLESS III: all secondary endpoints exploratory only.
Secondary EndpointBLESS I
LETYBO / Placebo
Treatment Diff. (95% CI)BLESS II
LETYBO / Placebo
Treatment Diff. (95% CI)BLESS III
LETYBO / Placebo (exploratory)
SE1: Multi-component Responder Rate at Week 12 (NRI)67/528 (12.7%) / 0/175 (0%)12.2% (9.3%, 15.0%); p<0.00017/160 (4.4%) / 0/53 (0%)3.6% (0.6%, 6.6%); p=0.173 (Stop)56/266 (21.1%) / 1/89 (1.1%); 19.4% (13.8%, 25.0%)
SE2: Multi-component Responder Rate at Week 16 (observed)22/501 (4.4%) / 0/159 (0%)4.5% (2.6%, 6.3%); p=0.0065/149 (3.4%) / 0/48 (0%)2.9% (-0.0%, 5.7%) [exploratory after SE1 stop]27/254 (10.6%) / 1/84 (1.2%); 8.6% (4.1%, 13.2%)
SE3.1: ≥1-pt improvement at rest (GLS-I; Week 4)333/473 (70.4%) / 27/160 (16.9%)54.8% (47.7%, 61.9%); p<0.000195/141 (67.4%) / 3/47 (6.4%)58.5% (47.4%, 69.6%)163/215 (75.8%) / 8/66 (12.1%); 62.4% (52.8%, 72.0%)
SE3.2: ≥1-pt improvement at rest (GLS-S; Week 4)412/502 (82.1%) / 17/167 (10.2%)72.5% (66.7%, 78.2%); p<0.0001113/148 (76.4%) / 9/52 (17.3%)57.7% (44.7%, 70.7%)214/255 (83.9%) / 11/82 (13.4%); 69.4% (60.6%, 78.1%)
SE4: Multi-component Responder Rate at Week 20 (observed)6/503 (1.2%) / 0/158 (0%)1.2% (0.2%, 2.2%); p=0.169 (Stop)2/148 (1.4%) / 0/48 (0%)1.3% (-0.7%, 3.2%) [exploratory]NA

Source: FDA Medical Review BLA 761225 (Ref ID 4960826), Table 15. SE3 applicable only for subjects with GLS at rest ≥1 at baseline. Mantel-Haenszel weights stratified by center.

Subgroup Analyses — Primary Endpoint at Week 4 (FAS)

SubgroupBLESS I
LETYBO / Placebo
BLESS II
LETYBO / Placebo
BLESS III
LETYBO / Placebo
Age 18–64 years222/462 (48.1%) / 0/157 (0%)73/141 (51.8%) / 1/45 (2.2%)155/233 (66.5%) / 0/81 (0%)
Age 65–75 years24/66 (36.4%) / 0/18 (0%)5/19 (26.3%) / 0/8 (0%)17/33 (51.5%) / 0/8 (0%)
Female230/483 (47.6%) / 0/155 (0%)77/150 (51.3%) / 1/45 (2.2%)166/248 (66.9%) / 0/80 (0%)
Male16/45 (35.6%) / 0/20 (0%)1/10 (10.0%) / 0/8 (0%)6/18 (33.3%) / 0/9 (0%)
White216/482 (44.8%) / 0/153 (0%)75/153 (49.0%) / 1/50 (2.0%)157/236 (66.5%) / 0/79 (0%)
Black or African American22/33 (66.7%) / 0/18 (0%)2/3 (66.7%) / 0/1 (0%)12/25 (48.0%) / 0/7 (0%)
Not Hispanic/Latino233/497 (46.9%) / 0/166 (0%)60/126 (47.6%) / 0/45 (0%)121/200 (60.5%) / 0/67 (0%)
Hispanic/Latino10/25 (40.0%) / 0/8 (0%)18/33 (54.5%) / 1/7 (14.3%)51/66 (77.3%) / 0/22 (0%)
Botulinum Toxin Naïve160/345 (46.4%) / 0/116 (0%)49/105 (46.7%) / 1/42 (2.4%)106/169 (62.7%) / 0/53 (0%)
Previous Botulinum Toxin Use86/183 (47.0%) / 0/59 (0%)29/55 (52.7%) / 0/11 (0%)66/97 (68.0%) / 0/36 (0%)
US146/268 (54.5%) / 0/95 (0%)78/160 (48.8%) / 1/53 (1.9%)153/225 (68.0%) / 0/79 (0%)
EU100/260 (38.5%) / 0/80 (0%)N/A19/41 (46.3%) / 0/10 (0%)

Source: FDA Medical Review BLA 761225 (Ref ID 4960826), Table 16. Treatment effect for females was higher than males; effect for subjects <65 yrs was higher than ≥65 yrs in all three studies. Small sample sizes in male and ≥65-yr subgroups limit reliable estimation. Results consistent across most subgroups.

BLESS III Sensitivity — Excluding Site 110

Protocol Deviation — Site 110 (BLESS III): A site audit in January 2020 identified that an unblinded staff member performed blinded safety assessments at Site 110 (44 Letybo, 7 placebo subjects). Sensitivity analysis excluding Site 110 yielded 147/222 (66.2%) vs 0/82 (0%), treatment difference 66.1% (95% CI: 59.7%, 72.5%), p<0.0001 — nearly identical to primary analysis (65.2%; 59.3%, 71.2%). Minimal impact on efficacy conclusions.

Open-Label Extension — Drug Exposure

Treatment CycleBLESS I (N=704)BLESS II (N=213)BLESS III (N=355)Combined (N=1272)
1st treatment (DB LETYBO + all OL)704 (100%)213 (100%)355 (100%)1272 (100%)
3rd study treatment616 (93.5%)181 (92.8%)265 (82.0%)1062 (83.5%)
4th study treatment464 (70.4%)149 (76.4%)139 (43.0%)752 (59.1%)

Source: FDA Medical Review BLA 761225 (Ref ID 4960826), Table 17. ISS Population: 1,272 total; 955 DB LETYBO + 317 placebo; 1,177 OL LETYBO. Total BoNT/A-DP exposures at marketed 20U dose: 1,380 subjects (including 134 from HG-11-01). 546 subjects received all 4 treatment cycles.

Boxed Warning

⚠ DISTANT SPREAD OF TOXIN EFFECT: The effects of all botulinum toxin products, including LETYBO, may spread from the area of injection to produce symptoms consistent with botulinum toxin effects. Symptoms have been reported hours to weeks after injection. Swallowing and breathing difficulties can be life threatening and there have been reports of death. LETYBO is not approved for the treatment of spasticity or any conditions other than glabellar lines.

Safety Database

Double-Blind Safety Population: 911 LETYBO and 310 placebo subjects from BLESS I, II, III. Open-Label Safety Population: 1,129 subjects. Total BoNT/A-DP exposures at 20U: 1,380 subjects across all studies.
Deaths
0
No deaths in any study phase
Tx-Related SAEs
0
No SAEs judged treatment-related
Any TEAE (DB)
23.6%
LETYBO vs 19.4% Placebo
Headache (AR)
2%
Most common adverse reaction; PI Table 2

Adverse Reactions (PI Table 2) — Double-Blind Period

Adverse ReactionLETYBO (N=911) n (%)Placebo (N=310) n (%)
Headache* (any)17 (2%)2 (1%)
Brow ptosis** (any)3 (<1%)0
Eyelid ptosis3 (<1%)0
Blepharospasm2 (<1%)0

* Includes headache, head discomfort, migraine, and procedural headache. ** Includes brow ptosis and brow heaviness. Source: FDA PI BLA 761225 (Ref ID 5337801), Table 2. Adverse reactions reported in more than one subject in the LETYBO group vs placebo.

Common TEAEs ≥1% — Double-Blind Period (Pooled BLESS I, II, III)

Preferred TermLETYBO (N=911) n (%)Placebo (N=310) n (%)
Any TEAE215 (23.6%)60 (19.4%)
Upper respiratory tract infection*47 (5.2%)12 (3.9%)
Headache†31 (4.3%)5 (1.6%)
Injection site reaction‡11 (1.2%)6 (1.9%)
Urinary tract infection9 (1.0%)0

* Includes nasopharyngitis, URTI, sinusitis, laryngitis, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, pharyngitis streptococcal. † Includes headache, head discomfort, migraine, procedural headache. ‡ Includes contusion, facial pain, folliculitis, haematoma, injection site pain/bruising/hematoma/pruritus, swelling. Source: FDA Medical Review BLA 761225 (Ref ID 4960826), Table 26.

Adverse Reactions ≥1% — Double-Blind and Open-Label Periods

Preferred TermDB: LETYBO (N=911)DB: Placebo (N=310)OL Cycle 2 (N=1129)OL Cycle 3 (N=1020)OL Cycle 4 (N=722)
Any Adverse Reaction33 (3.6%)8 (2.6%)28 (2.5%)23 (2.3%)7 (1.0%)
Headache*17 (1.9%)2 (0.6%)15 (1.3%)8 (0.8%)2 (0.3%)
Injection site reaction11 (1.2%)6 (1.9%)5 (0.4%)4 (0.4%)3 (0.4%)

Source: FDA Medical Review BLA 761225 (Ref ID 4960826), Tables 28 and 30. Headache AR was more frequent in younger subjects (<65 yrs: 4.6% vs ≥65 yrs: 1.4%) and in treatment-naïve subjects (5.1% vs 2.5% pre-treated). AR incidence did not increase with multiple retreatments.

Injection Site Reactions — Double-Blind Period

Injection Site ReactionLETYBO (N=911) n (%)Placebo (N=310) n (%)
Any injection site reaction6 (0.7%)2 (0.6%)
Injection site pain3 (0.3%)1 (0.3%)
Contusion (bruising)2 (0.2%)1 (0.3%)
Haematoma1 (0.1%)1 (0.3%)
Swelling1 (0.1%)1 (0.3%)
Injection site bruising1 (0.1%)1 (0.3%)
Facial pain01 (0.3%)
Folliculitis1 (0.1%)0
Injection site haematoma1 (0.1%)0
Injection site pruritus1 (0.1%)0

Source: FDA Medical Review BLA 761225 (Ref ID 4960826), Table 29.

Serious Adverse Events (Double-Blind Period)

SAEs in LETYBO group (DB)10/911 (1.1%) subjects; none treatment-related
SAEs in Placebo group (DB)1/310 (0.3%) subject; not treatment-related
SAE patternAll by PT reported for 1 subject except cholecystitis, osteoarthritis, and coronary artery disease (2 subjects each)
SAEs in OL period21 subjects overall (1.9%); rate decreased with subsequent cycles: Cycle 1: 1.1%, Cycle 2: 1.1%, Cycle 3: 0.7%, Cycle 4: 0.4%
Treatment-Related SAEsNone
DeathsNone

Adverse Events of Special Interest — Toxin Spread

AESI (Preferred Term)DB: LETYBO (N=911) n (%)DB: Placebo (N=310) n (%)OL: LETYBO (N=1129) n (%)
LOCAL SPREAD
Eyelid ptosis3 (0.3%)06 (0.5%)
Brow ptosis and heaviness3 (0.3%)01 (0.1%)
Vision blurred1 (0.1%)01 (0.1%)
Photophobia001 (0.1%)
Diplopia001 (0.1%)
DISTANT SPREAD
Bradycardia1 (0.1%)00
Dysarthria1 (0.1%)00
Constipation1 (0.1%)01 (0.1%)
Dyspnoea001 (0.1%)
Muscular weakness01 (0.3%)0
Dysphagia01 (0.3%)0

Source: FDA Medical Review BLA 761225 (Ref ID 4960826), Table 21. Total 24 AESIs across studies (excluding 1 subject from BLESS III Site 110). 12 in DB period (10 after LETYBO, 2 after placebo); 12 in OL period. None of the AESIs were considered serious or severe. DB clinical reviewer noted disagreement with investigator causality assessment for several eyelid/brow ptosis events, stating temporal relationship could not rule out treatment-relatedness.

Cardiovascular Adverse Events

Preferred TermDB: LETYBO (N=955) n (%)DB: Placebo (N=317) n (%)OL: LETYBO (N=1177) n (%)
Any cardiac disorder4 (0.4%)1 (0.3%)4 (0.3%)
Arrhythmia1 (0.1%)01 (0.1%)
AV block first degree1 (0.1%)1 (0.3%)0
Bradycardia1 (0.1%)00
Palpitations1 (0.1%)00
Coronary artery disease002 (0.2%)
Acute myocardial infarction001 (0.1%)
Angina unstable001 (0.1%)
Hypertension2 (0.2%)010 (0.8%)

Source: FDA Medical Review BLA 761225 (Ref ID 4960826), Table 23. None of the cardiac events was judged treatment-related; none was consistent with MACE. ECG assessment showed no clinically meaningful differences between groups or QT prolongation.

Warnings and Precautions (PI §5)

  • Spread of toxin effects; dysphagia and breathing difficulties can be life-threatening; death reported. Seek immediate medical attention if respiratory, speech, or swallowing difficulties occur.
  • Potency Units of LETYBO are NOT interchangeable with other botulinum toxin products; cannot be compared or converted.
  • Serious adverse reactions (excessive weakness, dysphagia, aspiration pneumonia, fatal outcomes) reported with unapproved uses.
  • Hypersensitivity reactions: anaphylaxis, serum sickness, urticaria, soft tissue edema, dyspnea. Discontinue and initiate appropriate therapy.
  • Cardiovascular adverse reactions (arrhythmia, MI) with some fatal outcomes; use caution in pre-existing cardiovascular disease.
  • Increased risk with pre-existing neuromuscular disorders (ALS, myasthenia gravis, Lambert-Eaton syndrome); monitor for increased neuromuscular compromise.
  • Dysphagia and dyspnea including respiratory failure; may occur hours to weeks post-injection; deaths from severe dysphagia reported.
  • Use caution with inflammation at injection site, excessive weakness/atrophy in target muscles, marked facial asymmetry, surgical alterations, excessive dermatochalasis, deep dermal scarring.
  • Ophthalmic adverse reactions: dry eye, reduced tear production, reduced blinking, corneal disorders; refer to ophthalmologist if persistent dry eye symptoms.
  • Contains human albumin (derivative of human blood); remote risk for viral disease transmission and variant CJD/CJD. No cases identified for licensed albumin products.

Immunogenicity

Subjects evaluated (Phase 3 pivotal studies)1,129 subjects (DB + OL phases)
Pre-existing antibodies at Screening/Baseline3 subjects (<1%)
Antibody development post-treatment2 subjects (<1%) — end of study
Neutralizing antibodies detectedNone (all titer values zero)
Impact on efficacy/safetyNo apparent association between antibody development and reduced efficacy or adverse events
PI-reported ADA incidence (1,195 subjects)4 subjects (0.3%) developed antibodies; no neutralizing ADA detected in tested samples
Supportive study (HG-11-01; Korea)No positive antibody samples among 271 subjects; samples collected at Baseline and Week 16
CaveatsSmall number of antibody-positive subjects limits definitive conclusions; ADA detection dependent on assay sensitivity/specificity

Source: FDA Medical Review BLA 761225 (Ref ID 4960826), Section 6.2.1 and Table 2; FDA PI (Ref ID 5337801). PI and medical review differ slightly in the total N reported (1,195 vs 1,129) due to inclusion/exclusion of supportive studies.

Specific Safety Findings

Pregnancies: 4 pregnancies reported as AEs (“exposure during pregnancy”) — 1 during double-blind phase, 3 during open-label phase; all led to study discontinuation; all 4 subjects delivered healthy babies. No drug-related fetal outcomes observed in available data.
Discontinuations due to TEAEs: 8 subjects total (7 LETYBO, 1 placebo). Treatment-related TEAEs leading to discontinuation: headache (1 subject, definitely related); injection site bruising (1 placebo subject, possibly related to injection procedure). Non-treatment-related: Lyme disease (1), actinic keratosis (1); Pregnancies (4).
Laboratory, Vital Signs, ECG: No clinically significant changes in hematology/chemistry from baseline to Week 4 or end of each treatment cycle in either group. No clinically meaningful changes in vital signs or ECG parameters between groups. No QT prolongation detected. No new safety signals identified.

Mechanism of Action

Drug TypeBotulinum toxin type A; 900 kDa noncovalent multimeric complex (6 proteins)
MechanismBlocks cholinergic transmission at the neuromuscular junction by inhibiting acetylcholine release; cleaves SNAP25 protein
Cellular pathwayIM injection → internalization into nerve terminal → translocation to neuronal cytosol → SNAP25 cleavage → prevents ACh vesicle membrane fusion → dose-dependent decrease in muscle function
RecoveryGradual: neurotoxin degradation + axonal sprouting → muscle reinnervation → slow pharmacological reversal
Primary pharmacology comparatorOnset and duration of muscle paralysis comparable to onabotulinumtoxinA at all tested timepoints (3–28 days) and doses (2, 4, 8 U/animal) in rat model. No recovery within 4 weeks after injection of either toxin (Study CP-001).

Pharmacokinetics

No Detectable Systemic Exposure: Using currently available analytical technology, it is not possible to detect letibotulinumtoxinA in the peripheral blood following IM injection at the recommended doses. No clinical pharmacology studies were conducted to characterize bioavailability or PK because anticipated low systemic exposures are undetectable by current bioanalytical methods.
Absorption / BioavailabilityNot characterized; systemic exposure undetectable after recommended IM dose
DistributionNot characterized; systemic concentrations undetectable
MetabolismNot characterized
ExcretionNot characterized
Nonclinical PKNo nonclinical PK evaluations performed; systemic concentrations not detectable at clinically relevant doses by any available bioanalytical methods

Pharmacodynamics

Formal PD StudiesNo formal pharmacodynamic studies conducted in humans
Human PD characterizationThe pharmacodynamic effects of letibotulinumtoxinA in humans have not been characterized by the Applicant
Dose-responseNo dose-ranging study conducted; Phase 3 dose (20 U) selected based on supportive study HG-11-01 results (comparable efficacy to onabotulinumtoxinA 20 U)
Dose-exposure-responseNo pharmacodynamic or pharmacokinetic dose-/exposure-response data available
Therapeutic individualizationNot necessary; dose adjustment based on intrinsic factors not required

Drug Product Characterization

Active IngredientletibotulinumtoxinA-wlbg
Molecular Weight~900 kDa (noncovalent multimeric complex; 6 proteins)
Toxin TypeBotulinum neurotoxin type A
SourceClostridium botulinum fermentation
FormulationSterile, preservative-free, white freeze-dried powder; single-dose vial
50 Units vial excipientsAlbumin human (0.25 mg), Sodium chloride (0.45 mg)
100 Units vial excipientsAlbumin human (0.5 mg), Sodium chloride (0.9 mg)
Reconstituted appearanceClear, colorless; free of particulate matter

Non-Interchangeability

Critical Warning (PI §5.2 and §2.1): The potency Units of LETYBO are specific to the preparation and assay method utilized. They are NOT interchangeable with other preparations of botulinum toxin products. Units of biological activity of LETYBO cannot be compared to or converted into units of any other botulinum toxin product assessed with any other specific assay method.

Drug Interactions

No formal drug interaction studies conducted. Certain drugs may potentiate the effects of LETYBO, resulting in excessive neuromuscular weakness and heightened systemic anticholinergic effects.
Drug Class / AgentClinical ConcernManagement
AminoglycosidesEnhanced neuromuscular blockadeCaution; monitor for excessive neuromuscular weakness
Anticholinergic drugsMay heighten systemic anticholinergic effectsCaution; monitor closely
Other botulinum neurotoxin productsCumulative toxin effects; potentiate blockadeAvoid concurrent use or within several months of LETYBO
Muscle relaxantsEnhanced neuromuscular weaknessCaution before or after LETYBO administration

Source: FDA PI BLA 761225 (Ref ID 5337801) §7.

Nonclinical Toxicology Summary

StudySpecies / DurationKey Findings
Single dose IM toxicity (Study 05-RA-241-1)Rat; 6, 30, 150 U/kgDose-dependent paralysis, decreased body weight; LD50 = 129.5 U/kg (both sexes). Mortality at 150 U/kg.
Single dose IM toxicity (Study 05-DA242)Beagle dog; 2.5–200 U/kg (escalating)Minimum lethal dose >200 U/kg in dogs (not appropriate species for botulinum toxin toxicity)
4-week repeat dose IM toxicity (Study 05-RR-243)Rat; 0, 1.5, 3, 6 U/kg weekly × 4 wksParalysis at injection site (hind leg) all dose groups; muscle atrophy; NOAEL <1.5 U/kg/dose (paralysis at all groups)
6-month repeat dose IM toxicity (Study 167857)Rat; 0, 0.67/3.75, 2.0/7.5, 6.0/15 U/kg monthlyMuscle fiber atrophy/degeneration all dose groups; inflammatory infiltrate; fibrosis; some reversal after 6-month recovery
Embryo-fetal development (Study 08-RP-375)Rat; 0, 1, 4, 8 U/kg/dose; GD 5–16Decreased fetal body weight (all doses); ossification delays (mid/high dose). Effects secondary to maternal toxicity. No drug-related malformations. MRHD = 20 U/subject (0.34 U/kg for 60 kg subject); NOAEL not established at ≥1 U/kg (3× MRHD)
Carcinogenicity / GenotoxicityNot conducted; not warranted per ICH S6(R1) for biotechnology-derived products
Common toxicitiesMuscle paralysis and atrophy — typical for botulinum neurotoxin type A; no new or unique toxicities

Source: FDA Medical Review BLA 761225 (Ref ID 4960826), Section 5. No nonclinical PMRs or PMCs recommended.

Use in Specific Populations

Pregnancy (§8.1)Insufficient data from case reports to identify drug-associated risk. Systemic exposure not assessed (undetectable). Animal data: decreased fetal body weight and skeletal ossification at maternally toxic doses ≥1 U/kg (3× MRHD) in rats — secondary to maternal toxicity, not fetal teratogenicity. Background risk (US general population): birth defects 2–4%; miscarriage 15–20%.
Lactation (§8.2)No data on presence in human or animal milk, effects on breastfed infant, or milk production. Systemic exposure not assessed. Consider developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding.
Pediatric Use (§8.4)Safety and effectiveness not established. Full waiver granted — extremely low prevalence of glabellar lines in pediatric population (age 0–17 years).
Geriatric Use (§8.5)148 subjects ≥65 years enrolled (12%). No clinically meaningful differences in safety or efficacy vs younger subjects. Insufficient numbers to determine whether older patients respond differently. Subgroup analysis: response rate lower in ≥65 yrs vs 18–64 yrs.

Recommended Dosing

Standard Dose

  • Total dose: 20 Units per treatment session
  • 5 intramuscular injection sites
  • 4 Units (0.1 mL) per site
  • 2 injections in each corrugator muscle (inferomedial + superior middle)
  • 1 injection in mid-line of procerus muscle

Treatment Frequency

  • No more frequently than every 3 months
  • Consider cumulative dose if other botulinum toxins have been used for other indications
  • Potency units NOT interchangeable with other botulinum toxin products
  • Single-use vial only; discard remaining solution immediately after use
  • One injection session per vial; one patient per vial

Reconstitution

Vial SizeDiluent AddedResulting Concentration
50 Units1.25 mL4 Units / 0.1 mL
100 Units2.5 mL4 Units / 0.1 mL

Diluent: Preservative-free 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP. Source: FDA PI BLA 761225 (Ref ID 5337801), Table 1.

Reconstitution Instructions: Slowly inject diluent into vial. Discard vial if vacuum does not pull diluent in. Gently mix by rotating — do not shake vigorously. Reconstituted solution is clear and colorless; discard if cloudy, discolored, or contains particles. Administer within 24 hours after reconstitution; store at 2°C to 8°C in original carton (protect from light). Do not freeze reconstituted LETYBO.

Administration Technique

Pre-injection Assessment: Carefully examine upper eyelid margin for separation or weakness of levator palpebrae superioris. Evaluate range of upper eyelid excursion while manually immobilizing frontalis to assess levator function and frontalis compensation.
Needle Size30–31 gauge
Volume per Injection Site0.1 mL (4 Units)
Number of Sites5 (see PI Figure 1)
Corrugator Injections2 per corrugator muscle (inferomedial + superior middle of each corrugator); lateral injections ≥1 cm above bony supraorbital ridge
Procerus Injection1 in mid-line of procerus muscle
Safety DistanceAvoid injecting toxin closer than 1 cm above the central eyebrow
Syringe PreparationDraw ≥0.5 mL of reconstituted toxin into sterile syringe; expel air bubbles; remove reconstitution needle; attach 30–31G needle; confirm needle patency
Injection Volume AccuracyEnsure injected volume/dose is accurate; administer in steady, controlled manner
Ptosis Reduction Precautions: Avoid injection near the levator palpebrae superioris, particularly in patients with larger brow depressor complexes. Lateral corrugator injections ≥1 cm above bony supraorbital ridge. Avoid injection <1 cm above central eyebrow.

Storage and Handling

Unopened vials — storageRefrigerator 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F); original carton; protect from light
Unopened vials — do not freezeDo not freeze
Reconstituted — storageRefrigerator 2°C to 8°C in original carton; protect from light; ≤24 hours
Reconstituted — do notDo not freeze reconstituted product
NDC (50 Units)NDC 81165-050-01 (carton of 1 vial)
NDC (100 Units)NDC 81165-100-01 (carton of 1 vial)

Contraindications

  • Known hypersensitivity to any botulinum toxin preparation (including BOTOX, BOTOX Cosmetic, MYOBLOC, DYSPORT, XEOMIN, JEUVEAU, DAXXIFY)
  • Known hypersensitivity to any component of the LETYBO formulation (albumin human, sodium chloride)
  • Presence of infection at the proposed injection site(s)

Special Patient Populations — Dosing Considerations

Patients with neuromuscular disorders (ALS, myasthenia gravis, Lambert-Eaton)Caution; increased risk of clinically significant effects; monitor for neuromuscular compromise after treatment
Patients with pre-existing cardiovascular diseaseCaution; reports of arrhythmia and MI with botulinum toxins, some fatal
Patients with compromised respiratory function or dysphagiaCaution; more susceptible to dysphagia/dyspnea complications
Marked facial asymmetry, surgical facial alterations, ptosis, dermatochalasis, deep scarring, thick sebaceous skinUse with particular caution; increased risk of suboptimal outcomes or adverse events
Cumulative dose with other botulinum toxin indicationsConsider cumulative dose when treating glabellar lines if other botulinum toxin products are or have been used for other approved indications
Geriatric patients (≥65 years)No dose adjustment required; 148 subjects ≥65 yrs in trials showed no clinically meaningful differences; limited data preclude definitive conclusions

BLA Key Facts

Application NumberBLA 761225
Application TypeBLA 351(a) — full Biologics License Application (original submission)
ApplicantHugel, Inc.
IND NumberIND 123178
Initial BLA Submission2021 (first review cycle)
Resubmission DateAugust 31, 2023
PDUFA Goal DateFebruary 29, 2024
Actual Approval DateFebruary 29, 2024
Review DivisionDivision of Dermatology and Dentistry (DDD)
OfficeOffice of Immunology and Inflammation (OII)
Office Director (acting)Nikolay Nikolov, M.D.
Division Signatory (ADTR)Gordana Diglisic, M.D.
Cross-Discipline Team LeaderSnezana Trajkovic, M.D.
Clinical ReviewerTong Li-Masters, M.D., Ph.D.
Review TypeStandard review
Advisory CommitteeNot convened
RecommendationApproval
Medical Review Ref ID4960826 (original); 5337218 (resubmission)
PI Ref ID5337801
U.S. License Number2237

Regulatory Timeline

September 10, 2014
Pre-IND / End of Phase 2 Meeting
FDA provided recommendations on the development program for proposed indication.
October 30, 2015
BLESS I Protocol Submitted
Phase 3 protocol submitted under IND 123178.
November 20, 2015
Full Clinical Hold Placed
IND placed on full clinical hold — insufficient information regarding potency methodology; no parallelism assessment between test and reference standard.
December 21, 2015
Clinical Hold Lifted
Hold lifted after Applicant submitted response (December 1, 2015).
March 16, 2016
Agreed Initial Pediatric Study Plan (iPSP)
Full waiver of pediatric studies granted (ages 0–17 yrs) — glabellar lines extremely rare in pediatric population; studies impossible or highly impractical.
December 20, 2018
Pre-BLA Meeting
Content and format of BLA application discussed.
2021 (first cycle)
Original BLA Submission
Efficacy and safety established during first review cycle (three adequate and well-controlled Phase 3 studies). Clinical data deemed adequate; manufacturing deficiencies identified.
April 12, 2023
Complete Response Letter (CRL) Issued
All deficiencies related to drug substance and drug product manufacturing facilities. No clinical efficacy or safety concerns. Pre-license inspection (PLI) at Hugel Inc. (FEI #3012163998) identified significant outstanding manufacturing risks.
August 31, 2023
BLA 761225 Resubmission
Complete response to FDA manufacturing facility deficiencies. No new clinical efficacy or safety information submitted or required.
February 29, 2024
FDA Approval
LETYBO approved for temporary improvement in appearance of moderate to severe glabellar lines in adult patients. Leap day approval.

Key Review Issues

Manufacturing Deficiencies (CRL — First Cycle): The Complete Response Letter focused entirely on drug substance and drug product manufacturing facility issues identified during pre-license inspection at Hugel Inc. (FEI #3012163998). Deficiencies related to Module 3, identified by OBP and OPMA. No clinical data issues.
Potency Assay / Clinical Hold (IND Phase): Early clinical hold (2015) due to insufficient information on potency methodology — specifically, lack of parallelism assessment between test and reference standard. Resolved December 2015.
Statistical Methodology Correction: FDA statistical reviewers modified CI calculation method. Applicant used unstratified Newcombe confidence limits (inappropriate for 0% placebo responder rates in BLESS I and III). Reviewers applied Mantel-Haenszel stratified by study center. Also corrected one-sided p-value derivation from chi-squared distribution. Neither change affected the efficacy conclusion.
Site 110 Integrity Issue (BLESS III): Protocol non-compliance (unblinded staff performed blinded safety assessments). Sensitivity analysis excluding Site 110 confirmed robustness of primary efficacy conclusion (66.1% vs 65.2%).

Postmarketing Requirements and Commitments

No PMRs or PMCs: No postmarketing requirements or commitments identified for this application from clinical, statistical, or clinical pharmacology perspectives.

Benefit-Risk Assessment

Overall Benefit-RiskFavorable for glabellar lines indication. Performance similar to other marketed botulinum toxin A products for the same indication.
Efficacy EvidenceSubstantial evidence from three adequate and well-controlled Phase 3 trials; consistent primary endpoint results across all three studies (p<0.0001 each)
Safety ProfileConsistent with other approved BoNT-A products; generally well tolerated; no treatment-related deaths or SAEs; no new safety signals identified
Headache (most common AR)2% (LETYBO) vs 1% (placebo); headache rate higher in treatment-naïve and younger subjects
ImmunogenicityLow rate of ADA formation (0.3%); no neutralizing antibodies detected; no apparent impact on efficacy or safety
LabelingStandard botulinum toxin warnings and precautions included; label includes relevant safety information for risk management
Global Marketing HistoryMarketed in Korea as Botulax® since 2010; ~16.7 million vials distributed globally (March 2009 – September 2020) across multiple indications; no new safety signals from global post-marketing experience
Statistical IssuesNone affecting efficacy conclusions
Source DocumentsMedical Review Ref ID 4960826 (original) / 5337218 (resubmission); PI Ref ID 5337801

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