Join Jessica Farrell, PharmD, a clinical pharmacist at Albany Med’s Division of Dermatology and professor at Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, as she explores a key head-to-head clinical trial comparing Ixekizumab (IL-17 inhibitor) vs. Guselkumab (IL-23 inhibitor) for moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. This British Journal of Dermatology study, published in December 2019, provides essential insights into efficacy, safety, and speed of response, making it a valuable resource for healthcare providers treating psoriasis.
The study focused on patients with significant psoriasis severity, defined by Static Physician Global Assessment (sPGA) scores of 3 or higher, Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) scores above 12, and at least 10% body surface area (BSA) involvement. Participants were randomized to receive either Ixekizumab or Guselkumab at their FDA-approved dosing regimens, with a primary endpoint of 100% PASI improvement (PASI 100) at Week 12.
Results revealed a clear difference in speed of response. By Week 12, 41% of patients on Ixekizumab achieved PASI 100, compared to 25% on Guselkumab, a statistically significant difference. Even more compelling, PASI 50 was reached as early as Week 1 in the Ixekizumab group, and PASI 75 was achieved by Week 2, reinforcing its potential as a rapid-acting psoriasis treatment. These findings are critical for patients who are eager to see visible skin improvements quickly, particularly those who experience severe itching, scaling, and emotional distress due to their condition.
Dr. Farrell emphasizes that head-to-head trials are rare in dermatology, making this study highly valuable when considering treatment sequencing in plaque psoriasis. Choosing between IL-17 and IL-23 inhibitors depends on several factors, including mechanism of action, patient history, treatment goals, and potential adverse effects. The study also confirmed that both medications maintained a favorable safety profile, with no new safety concerns emerging during the trial.
For patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis, access to fast-acting, effective therapies is crucial. With studies like this, healthcare providers can make more informed decisions when prescribing biologic therapies for psoriasis, ensuring that patients receive the most effective treatment tailored to their needs.
For more expert insights into psoriasis management, biologic therapies, and rheumatology advancements, visit RhAPP.org or explore the RhAPP ACE App.
CrimeLess: Hillbilly Heist
It’s 1996 in rural North Carolina, and an oddball crew makes history when they pull off America’s third largest cash heist. But it’s all downhill from there. Join host Johnny Knoxville as he unspools a wild and woolly tale about a group of regular ‘ol folks who risked it all for a chance at a better life. CrimeLess: Hillbilly Heist answers the question: what would you do with 17.3 million dollars? The answer includes diamond rings, mansions, velvet Elvis paintings, plus a run for the border, murder-for-hire-plots, and FBI busts.
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.
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