Comparison study shows efficacy of new targets
Several recent clinical trials in patients with moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis have demonstrated that inhibitors targeting IL‐17 and IL‐23 can offer patients high levels of skin clearance.
The IXORA‐R trial focuses on early responses to treatment. Because patients have indicated that rapid, complete clearance of psoriasis is a priority, the primary endpoint of IXORA‐R is complete clearance at Week 12, as measured by a 100% improvement in Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI 100). Patients with moderate‐to‐severe plaque psoriasis were randomized 1:1 to receive either ixekizumab, brand name “Taltz,” an IL‐17 inhibitor, or guselkumab, brand name “Tremfya,” an IL‐23 inhibitor, at the approved doses. As of Week 12, the study findings demonstrate clinically meaningful and statistically significant differences in results for ixekizumab versus guselkumab in complete clearance (PASI 100) at Week 12. The rapid response of ixekizumab was demonstrated as early as Week 1. Additionally, ixekizumab treatment led to more rapid achievement of improved quality of life and resolved itch more rapidly than guselkumab. The safety profiles of ixekizumab and guselkumab were consistent with previous phase 3 studies of the drugs.