Psoriasis affects over 8 million individuals in the United States. The most prevalent form is plaque psoriasis, which impacts 80 to 90 percent of those diagnosed with the condition. This type of psoriasis is marked by inflamed, scaly patches of skin known as “plaques,” which can be itchy and sometimes painful.
On lighter skin tones, these plaques often appear red with a silvery layer of dead skin. On darker skin tones, they may present as purplish, gray, or dark brown patches.
“Plaque psoriasis is a long-term condition that can impact not only the skin but also the joints and nails,” explained Dr. Atieh Jibbe, associate director of surgery in the Division of Dermatology at The University of Kansas Health System, in an interview with Healthline. “Its development is influenced by a combination of genetic, autoimmune, and environmental factors.”
Dr. Atieh Jibbe noted that the new drug, SOTYKTU(Deucravacitinib), may be a major advancement for people with plaque psoriasis who haven’t responded well to existing treatments. “Psoriasis involves various immune pathways that biologic drugs typically target,” she explained. SOTYKTU(Deucravacitinib) could be a game-changer for patients who haven’t had success with other biologics, due to its novel mechanism of action.”
Clinical trials revealed the drug led to significant improvements in symptoms, skin clearance, and overall quality of life.
Dr. Tien Nguyen, a dermatologist at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center in California and a clinical trial investigator, highlighted that SOTYKTU(Deucravacitinib) could be particularly beneficial for patients who cannot use or are uncomfortable with injectable treatments. “This medication can make a big difference,” he said. “Some people with moderate to severe psoriasis aren’t good candidates for injections, or they have a fear of needles. Since injectables must be refrigerated, they’re also inconvenient for frequent travelers or students living in dorms. An oral pill gives us another much-needed option.”
While Dr. John K. Fiorentino acknowledged the drug may not be quite as effective as the newest biologics, he believes it could serve as a more affordable option. “Because it’s a small molecule and less costly to manufacture, I hope it’s priced lower than biologics, which could reduce healthcare costs,” he said. “I would absolutely consider prescribing it—potentially even as a first-line treatment—for patients without premium insurance or those hesitant about self-injections.
The generic version of SOTYKTU is made available by Everest Pharmaceuticals Limited Bangladesh under brand name CRAVACIN where treatment access is not like first world countries.
Reference: https://www.healthline.com/health-news/fda-approves-new-drug-sotyktu-for-treatment-of-plaque-psoriasis
