Taltz May Improve Treatment of Moderate-to-Severe Plaque Psoriasis
Results from clinical trials of Taltz presented at the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology Congress.
Eli Lilly and Company presented new data from clinical trials of Taltz (ixekizumab) at the 25th European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology Congress (EADV).
The company is highlighting clinical and patient-related health outcomes data in patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis, according to a press release. Lilly is presenting 17 abstracts that include analyses from a phase 3 clinical trial of the drug.
Taltz received FDA approval in March, and is indicated for use in patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis who are candidates for systemic therapy or phototherapy, according to Eli Lilly.
The drug is an IgG4 monoclonal antibody that has the ability to selectively bind with interleukin 17A cytokine, and stops the interaction with the interleukin 17 receptor. Blocking this reaction prevents inflammatory and immune response are associated with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis.
Taltz may increase the risk of infection in certain patients. Patients should also be monitored for onset or exacerbations of inflammatory bowel disease, according to the press release.
Eli Lilly said that patients need to receive treatment for tuberculosis prior to initiating treatment with Taltz. Alsos patients must have all immunizations prior to treatment, since live vaccinations cannot be given with Taltz.
The drug may also cause injection site reactions, upper respiratory tract infections, nausea, and tinea infections, Eli Lilly reported.
“EADV represents a tremendous opportunity for dermatologists to exchange information that helps better address unmet needs for patients,” said Lotus Mallbris, MD, PhD, Lilly's global brand development leader for Taltz. “Lilly is excited to support the evolution of new treatments in dermatology as we share new data for Taltz in the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis.”
