Zelsuvmi Berdazimer—A Novel New Therapy for Molluscum Contagiosum—Efficacy, Safety, and Future Considerations

Abstract

Berdazimer sodium, marketed as Zelsuvmi, is an antiviral medication used to treat a viral infection called molluscum contagiosum (MC). MC is a common skin infection caused by a poxvirus, resulting in round, stiff, but painless papules in various places on the body. Zelsuvmi's antiviral activity is associated with the release of nitric oxide, which exhibits potent antiviral properties. Zelsuvmi is used topically by patients or caregivers to treat this extremely contagious viral skin infection at home or in medical facilities. On January 5, 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Zelsuvmi for treating this infection in target populations, including adults and patients aged 1 year and above. Other therapies for MC, such as retinoic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and cryotherapy, are quite painful, while Zelsuvmi is less painful. The purpose of this article is to highlight the clinical importance and potential benefits of Zelsuvmi in the treatment of MC worldwide.