DBV Technologies Taps Industry Veteran Kevin Trapp to Lead Commercialization of Groundbreaking Peanut Allergy Patch
[Urgent Breaking News] In a move signaling a pivotal moment for families affected by peanut allergies, DBV Technologies, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, today announced the appointment of Kevin Trapp as its Chief Commercial Officer. This strategic hire comes as the company prepares to submit critical applications to the FDA for its innovative Viaskin Peanut patch, offering a potential life-changing treatment for millions.
A Veteran Returns to Drive Commercial Strategy
Effective immediately, Mr. Trapp will report directly to Managing Director Daniel Tasse and join the management team. His primary focus will be orchestrating the overall commercial strategy and execution for the Viaskin Peanut patch. This isn’t a new role for Trapp; he’s been a key contributor to DBV’s commercial planning since 2017, both as an executive and a consultant, bringing a deep understanding of the science and the urgent need for this therapy.
“Kevin’s appointment comes at a pivotal time,” stated Daniel Tassé. “His leadership, strategic vision, and confidence in the Viaskin Peanut patch are essential as we approach potential commercialization.”
The Road to Approval: BLA Submissions on the Horizon
DBV Technologies is on track to submit a Biologics License Application (BLA) to the FDA for children aged 4 to 7 with peanut allergies in the first half of 2026. A second BLA, targeting children aged 1 to 3, will follow in the latter half of the year. These submissions are contingent upon positive results from the ongoing Phase 3 VITESSE study, expected in the fourth quarter of 2024, which is evaluating the patch’s efficacy in children aged 4 to 7.
Beyond the Patch: Understanding the Landscape of Food Allergies
Peanut allergy affects an estimated 2% of children in the United States, and its prevalence is rising. Current management strategies primarily focus on strict avoidance and emergency epinephrine treatment. The Viaskin Peanut patch represents a potentially paradigm-shifting approach – an epicutaneous immunotherapy designed to desensitize patients to peanut allergens through gradual exposure via the skin. This differs significantly from oral immunotherapy, which carries a higher risk of allergic reactions during treatment.
Trapp’s Proven Track Record: From BMS to Biotech Value Advisors
Kevin Trapp brings over 30 years of experience in the biopharmaceutical industry to DBV Technologies. Prior to rejoining the company, he served as Managing Director at Biotech Value Advisors (BVA), advising biotech firms on commercial strategy. His extensive career at Bristol-Myers Squibb (BMS) saw him lead portfolios of specialty and general medicine products valued at approximately $4 billion. He was instrumental in the launch of blockbuster drugs like Abilify, Atripla, and Daklinza, demonstrating a consistent ability to bring innovative therapies to market.
“The science behind the Viaskin Peanut Patch is remarkable, the unmet medical need is urgent,” said Trapp. “I have full confidence in the regulatory progress DBV has made.”
This appointment isn’t just about a commercial launch; it’s about fulfilling a mission. Trapp emphasized that returning to DBV was driven by a desire to complete the work of bringing this potentially life-altering treatment to those who need it most.
Stay tuned to Archyde for continued coverage of DBV Technologies and the Viaskin Peanut patch as we follow the progress of the VITESSE study and the BLA submissions. We’ll provide in-depth analysis and updates on this critical development in the fight against food allergies.
