Psoriasis Pill Matches Injection Effectiveness

A new daily pill, zasocitinib, is nearing potential approval for treating moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis, potentially eliminating the need for injections. Clinical trial results presented last month showed that approximately 70% of nearly 1,800 adults across 21 countries achieved clear or almost clear skin within 16 weeks of taking the medication.

These findings, from studies conducted by Takeda Pharmaceuticals, indicate zasocitinib's effectiveness and speed, with many patients noticing improvement as early as four weeks. The results were also sustained, with over 90% of those achieving clear skin at nine months maintaining it for over a year.

The drug, a TYK2 inhibitor, demonstrated superior results compared to apremilast, another common pill for psoriasis, with about 30% of patients on apremilast seeing significant improvement. No new safety concerns arose, though mild side effects like upper respiratory infections and acne were reported.

Takeda Pharmaceuticals plans to submit zasocitinib to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for approval within the next year. If approved, this pill could offer rapid, lasting relief for millions suffering from plaque psoriasis.