The purpose of this study is to determine the safety, efficacy and tolerability of topical R333 ointment in Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE) and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) patients with active discoid lesions.

This is a Phase 2, multi-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the preliminary efficacy, safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of topical R333 ointment formulated at 6% (60 mg/g) in DLE and SLE patients with active discoid lesions.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of SLE or DLE (DLE confirmed histologically prior to randomization).
• At least 2 active discoid lesions secondary to SLE or DLE prior to study entry, each with a minimum Erythema Rating Score of ≥ 2. At least 1 of the active discoid lesions must have been present (by history) for ≥ 3 weeks prior to screening.
• Patients who are taking azathioprine, hydroxychloroquine, chloroquine, quinacrine, methotrexate, and/ or oral glucocorticoids, must be receiving a stable daily dose ≥ 4 weeks prior to randomization and must remain on the same dose throughout the study. Azathioprine, hydroxychloroquine, chloroquine, quinacrine, or methotrexate must be initiated ≥ 8 weeks prior to randomization.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Congenital or acquired immunodeficiency including: HIV infection, agammaglobulinemias, T cell deficiencies or HTLV-1 infection at any time prior to the study.
• Lymphoproliferative disease or previous total lymphoid irradiation.
• Uncontrolled or poorly controlled hypertension.
• History of psoriasis, eczema, or relevant atopy.
• Exposure to excessive or chronic UV radiation (e.g., tanning beds, sunbathing, solarium, phototherapy) within 2 weeks prior to randomization or during the study period.