Efficacy

Efficacy of Stelara (Ustekinumab) in Treating Psoriasis

Stelara (ustekinumab) is a biologic medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults who are candidates for phototherapy or systemic therapy. Stelara works by targeting interleukin-12 (IL-12) and interleukin-23 (IL-23), two proteins that can play a role in the inflammation associated with psoriasis. Clinical trials have demonstrated that Stelara can lead to significant skin clearance in many patients. For instance, in two pivotal Phase III trials, more than two-thirds of patients achieved at least a 75% reduction in the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI 75) after 12 weeks of treatment, with continued improvement observed with ongoing therapy.

Long-term studies have also supported the sustained efficacy of Stelara for psoriasis treatment. In these studies, patients maintained substantial skin clearance over several years with continuous use. The safety profile of Stelara has been well-characterized, with most adverse events being mild to moderate in severity and generally not leading to discontinuation of therapy. The convenience of Stelara's dosing schedule, which typically involves an initial dose followed by a dose at week 4 and then every 12 weeks thereafter, may also contribute to patient adherence and satisfaction.

Efficacy of Skyrizi (Risankizumab) in Treating Psoriasis

Skyrizi (risankizumab) is another biologic medication approved by the FDA for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults who are candidates for systemic therapy or phototherapy. Skyrizi specifically targets interleukin-23 (IL-23) and has been shown to provide significant skin clearance for patients with psoriasis. In pivotal Phase III trials, Skyrizi demonstrated high levels of efficacy, with up to 90% of patients achieving PASI 90, which represents a 90% reduction in the PASI score, by week 16 of treatment. Additionally, over 50% of patients achieved PASI 100, indicating complete skin clearance.

The long-term efficacy of Skyrizi has been evaluated in extension trials, where the high rates of skin clearance were maintained for up to two years in the majority of patients. The medication is administered as an under-the-skin injection at week 0 and 4, and then every 12 weeks, which may be convenient for patients. The safety profile of Skyrizi is similar to other biologics, with most side effects being mild to moderate. The robust clinical trial data and the long-term efficacy results have made Skyrizi a valuable addition to the therapeutic options available for patients with psoriasis.