Nektar Therapeutics Stock Surges 120% on Breakthrough Eczema Drug Trial Results

Nektar Therapeutics shares more than doubled after mid-stage trial data showed its eczema drug rezpegaldesleukin achieved significant symptom improvement. The Phase 2b study demonstrated 53%-61% improvement in eczema severity scores versus 31% for placebo, with high-dose patients showing 75%-90% improvement.

The treatment's rapid itch relief and clean safety profile - lacking common side effects like conjunctivitis seen in rival therapies - positions it as a potential leader in autoimmune dermatology treatments. Nektar's CEO described the mechanism as "a new biology," highlighting its novel approach targeting regulatory T cells.

Investors rewarded the biotech firm's promising pipeline, with additional data for alopecia treatment expected in late 2025. The market response underscores the premium placed on innovative immunology treatments with differentiated profiles.