Xeljanz (tofacitinib) vs Skyrizi (risankizumab)
Xeljanz (tofacitinib) vs Skyrizi (risankizumab)
Xeljanz (tofacitinib) is an oral Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor that can modulate the immune system and is approved for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ulcerative colitis. Skyrizi (risankizumab) is a biologic injectable medication that targets interleukin-23 (IL-23), a specific protein involved in inflammatory processes, and is primarily used for moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. When deciding between the two, it is important to consider the specific condition being treated, the mode of administration, and the side effect profiles, as Xeljanz has been associated with an increased risk of serious infections and other side effects, while Skyrizi is more targeted in its action but also requires subcutaneous injections.
Difference between Xeljanz and Skyrizi
| Metric | Xeljanz (tofacitinib) | Skyrizi (risankizumab) |
|---|---|---|
| Generic name | Tofacitinib | Risankizumab |
| Indications | Rheumatoid arthritis, Psoriatic arthritis, Ulcerative colitis | Plaque psoriasis, Psoriatic arthritis |
| Mechanism of action | JAK inhibitor, modulating the immune response | IL-23 inhibitor, targeting the immune response |
| Brand names | Xeljanz, Xeljanz XR | Skyrizi |
| Administrative route | Oral | Subcutaneous injection |
| Side effects | Upper respiratory tract infections, Headache, Diarrhea, Nasopharyngitis | Upper respiratory infections, Headache, Fatigue, Injection site reactions |
| Contraindications | Severe liver impairment, Active serious infections | Serious hypersensitivity to risankizumab or excipients |
| Drug class | Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor | Interleukin-23 (IL-23) inhibitor |
| Manufacturer | Pfizer | AbbVie |
Efficacy
Xeljanz (Tofacitinib) Efficacy in Psoriatic Arthritis
Xeljanz (tofacitinib) is an oral medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors. It is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of adults with active psoriatic arthritis (PsA) who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to methotrexate or other disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). Clinical trials have demonstrated that tofacitinib can reduce the signs and symptoms of PsA, improve physical function, and inhibit the progression of structural damage as assessed by X-ray in patients with active disease.
In pivotal phase 3 trials, Xeljanz has shown to be effective in reducing the pain and swelling associated with PsA. The ACR20 response, a standard measure of improvement in disease activity, was achieved by a significant proportion of patients treated with tofacitinib compared to placebo. Furthermore, the efficacy of Xeljanz was seen across various subgroups of patients, including those with different levels of disease activity and prior treatment history.
Skyrizi (Risankizumab) Efficacy in Psoriatic Arthritis
Skyrizi (risankizumab) is an injectable biologic therapy that targets interleukin-23 (IL-23), a key cytokine involved in inflammatory processes. While Skyrizi is primarily known for its use in moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, it is also being studied for its potential in treating psoriatic arthritis. Although not yet approved for PsA at the time of this writing, clinical trials are underway to evaluate the efficacy and safety of risankizumab in this condition.
Early clinical trial results for Skyrizi in PsA have been promising, showing the drug's potential to improve joint symptoms, skin lesions, and quality of life for patients with PsA. In particular, phase 2 studies have indicated that risankizumab can lead to significant improvements in ACR20 response rates compared to placebo. Ongoing phase 3 trials are expected to provide more comprehensive data on the efficacy and safety profile of Skyrizi in the treatment of PsA, which will be crucial for its potential approval and use in this indication.
Regulatory Agency Approvals
Xeljanz
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European Medical Agency (EMA), European Union
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Food and Drug Administration (FDA), USA
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Health Canada
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Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), Australia
Skyrizi
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European Medical Agency (EMA), European Union
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Food and Drug Administration (FDA), USA
-
Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), Australia
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