Skyrizi (risankizumab) vs Wezlana (ustekinumab-auub)

Skyrizi (risankizumab) vs Wezlana (ustekinumab-auub)

Skyrizi (risankizumab) and Wezlana (ustekinumab-auub, a biosimilar to Stelara) are both used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, but they target different proteins involved in the inflammatory process. Skyrizi blocks the activity of interleukin-23 (IL-23) exclusively, which is believed to play a key role in chronic immune-mediated diseases, potentially offering a more targeted approach. Wezlana, on the other hand, inhibits both interleukin-12 (IL-12) and interleukin-23 (IL-23), which may affect a broader range of immune responses; however, the choice between these medications should be based on individual patient history, side effect profile, and the advice of a healthcare professional.

Difference between Skyrizi and Wezlana

Metric Skyrizi (risankizumab) Wezlana (ustekinumab-auub)
Generic name Risankizumab Ustekinumab-auub
Indications Plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis Plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis
Mechanism of action IL-23 inhibitor IL-12 and IL-23 inhibitor
Brand names Skyrizi Wezlana
Administrative route Subcutaneous injection Subcutaneous injection, intravenous infusion
Side effects Upper respiratory infections, headache, fatigue, injection site reactions Upper respiratory infections, headache, fatigue, injection site reactions, nasopharyngitis
Contraindications Known hypersensitivity to risankizumab or excipients Known hypersensitivity to ustekinumab or excipients
Drug class Monoclonal antibody Monoclonal antibody
Manufacturer AbbVie Janssen Biotech

Efficacy

Efficacy of Skyrizi (Risankizumab) in Psoriasis

Skyrizi, with the active ingredient risankizumab, is a biologic medication approved for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults who are candidates for systemic therapy or phototherapy. The efficacy of Skyrizi in psoriasis has been demonstrated in multiple clinical trials. In these studies, Skyrizi has shown to significantly improve skin clearance compared to placebo and other active treatments. Most notably, the majority of patients treated with Skyrizi achieved a 90% or greater reduction in the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI 90) score, which is considered a high level of skin clearance. Furthermore, Skyrizi has maintained its efficacy over long-term treatment periods, with sustained responses observed in patients.

Efficacy of Wezlana (Ustekinumab-auub) in Psoriasis

Wezlana, which is a biosimilar to the reference product Stelara, contains the active substance ustekinumab-auub. This medication is designed to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adult patients who are candidates for phototherapy or systemic therapy. Clinical studies have shown that Wezlana is highly effective in improving the symptoms of psoriasis. Patients receiving Wezlana often experience significant reductions in PASI scores, indicating improved skin clearance. The efficacy profile of Wezlana is comparable to that of the reference product, with many patients achieving PASI 75 (75% reduction in PASI score), and some reaching PASI 90 or PASI 100, which indicates complete clearance of psoriatic lesions.

Comparative Efficacy in Psoriasis Treatment

When comparing Skyrizi and Wezlana, both have been found to be effective treatments for plaque psoriasis, with Skyrizi often showing a higher proportion of patients achieving PASI 90 or higher. However, the choice between these two medications may depend on various factors, including patient response, tolerance, dosing schedule, and other individual considerations. It is important to note that while both medications target the immune system to reduce inflammation and plaque formation, they do so through different mechanisms of action. Skyrizi blocks the interleukin-23 (IL-23) pathway, while Wezlana targets both interleukin-12 (IL-12) and IL-23.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both Skyrizi and Wezlana have demonstrated high efficacy in the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. The significant improvement in PASI scores seen with these medications offers hope for patients seeking clear or almost clear skin. Healthcare providers should consider the individual patient's condition and treatment history when prescribing these medications, and patients should be monitored for safety and efficacy throughout their treatment. As with all medications, the benefits and risks should be carefully weighed, and treatment should be tailored to the patient's needs.

Regulatory Agency Approvals

Skyrizi
  • European Medical Agency (EMA), European Union
  • Food and Drug Administration (FDA), USA
  • Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), Australia
Wezlana
  • Food and Drug Administration (FDA), USA

Access Skyrizi or Wezlana today

If Skyrizi or Wezlana are not approved or available in your country (e.g. due to supply issues), you can access them via Everyone.org.

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