Efficacy

Efficacy of Stelara (Ustekinumab) for Psoriasis

Stelara (ustekinumab) is a biologic medication approved by the FDA for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults who are candidates for phototherapy or systemic therapy. Ustekinumab works by targeting interleukin-12 and interleukin-23, specific proteins in the immune system that are known to play a key role in the inflammatory processes associated with psoriasis. Clinical trials have demonstrated that Stelara can lead to significant skin clearance in many patients. In these trials, a substantial proportion of patients achieved at least a 75% reduction in the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI 75) score, which is a measure of the severity and extent of psoriasis.

The efficacy of Stelara has been observed as early as 12 weeks after the initial dose, with continued improvement over time. Long-term studies have shown that the therapeutic effects of Stelara are maintained for several years in many patients, with a good safety profile. The treatment is typically administered as an initial dose followed by a dose four weeks later, and then every 12 weeks thereafter. The convenience of this dosing schedule, combined with the significant improvement in psoriasis symptoms, has made Stelara a valuable treatment option for many patients.

Efficacy of Zoryve (Roflumilast) for Psoriasis

Zoryve (roflumilast) is a phosphodiesterase-4 (PDE4) inhibitor approved by the FDA for the topical treatment of plaque psoriasis, including intertriginous areas, in adults and pediatric patients 12 years of age and older. Roflumilast cream is designed to reduce inflammation by inhibiting the activity of PDE4, an enzyme that contributes to the inflammatory response seen in psoriasis. While Zoryve is a newer treatment option compared to traditional systemic therapies and biologics, clinical trials have shown promising results in reducing the signs and symptoms of plaque psoriasis.

In pivotal clinical trials, Zoryve demonstrated efficacy in achieving clear or almost clear skin as assessed by the Investigator Global Assessment (IGA) score, with a significant number of patients reaching this endpoint compared to placebo. The cream formulation allows for direct application to affected areas, which can be particularly beneficial for patients with localized or difficult-to-treat plaques. As a topical treatment, Zoryve offers an alternative for patients who may prefer to avoid systemic treatments or for whom systemic therapies are not suitable.