AbbVie Highlights Psoriasis Drug at EADV Conference

AbbVie will present new findings at the 25^th European Academy of Dermatology and Venerology Congress (EADV), and will further demonstrate their commitment to dermatology.

They will be announcing new data regarding Humira (adalimumab), and an experimental treatment risankizumab (formerly known as BI 655066).

AbbVie plans to discuss studies of risankizumab, which is an IL-23 monoclonal biologic antibody. The drug was analyzed in a phase 2 open-label extension study in patients with moderate-to-severe chronic plaque psoriasis, according to a press release.

Findings from a 2-year safety and efficacy study of Humira will also be highlighted at the conference. The drug was studied in patients with moderate-to-severe hidradenitis suppurativa.

Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic, painful skin condition that is characterized by lumps under the skin in the groin and armpit areas, but the bumps can appear wherever skin rubs together. Symptom management is the only option for these patients since there is no cure.

Humira, a tumor necrosis factor inhibitor, was the first treatment to gain FDA approval for this condition. AbbVie will also present findings from multiple health economics outcomes research studies that explored the real-world burden of hidradenitis suppurativa on patients.

These studies demonstrate AbbVie’s continuing commitment to this underserved population, according to the press release. Interim results from a 10-year post-marketing surveillance safety registry of Humira will also be presented.

The findings from the ESPRIT study show that Humira is a safe and effective treatment option for patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis.

“AbbVie's presence at EADV 2016 highlights the latest scientific research in difficult-to-treat skin conditions, including data underscoring the considerable impact these diseases can have on a person's physical, social and emotional wellbeing and the need for quality care," said Shao-Lee Lin, vice president Therapeutic Areas and International Development, AbbVie. “Additionally, building on our deep experience over more than 18 years in immunology with HUMIRA, we are excited to present the latest results of data evaluating investigational compound risankizumab, an IL-23 biologic for patients living with moderate to severe chronic plaque psoriasis.”