What is it:
Ustekinumab is a biologic drug developed by Centocor (a drug company) that blocks two natural chemicals involved in psoriasis: IL12 and IL 23. Centocor is also the maker of Remicade (Infliximab) for psoriasis.
How Well Does It Work:
The drug was effective and lasting in a phase III clinical trial. After two doses, 76% of patients in a high-dose group achieved PASI 75 at week 12. Seventy-nine of these patients maintained PASI 75 at 28 weeks with three doses of drug. The drug appears to wear off slowly over time without a "rebound" or flare as seen with discontinuation of other treatments. The rates of adverse events was similar for drug vs. placebo. After an initial two closely-spaced doses, additional dosing is planned to be only once every 12 weeks making this in essence a quarterly drug.
The drug received FDA approval for use in moderate to severe cases in 2009.
Source:
Reiman P. New Biologics Coming Closer to Market. Dermatology Times 2008;29:8-9.
