Sun Pharma inks exclusive pact with Hikma to distribute ILUMYA in Middle East, North Africa

ILUMYATM (tildrakizumab) is a humanized lgG1/k monoclonal antibody designed to selectively bind to the p19 subunit of interleukin-23 (IL-23) and inhibit its interaction with the IL-23 receptor, leading to inhibition of the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. ILUMYATM is indicated for the treatment of adults with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis who are candidates for systemic therapy or phototherapy.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) approved ILUMYATM in 2018 based on data from the pivotal Phase-3 reSURFACE clinical development program. The Phase-3 studies (reSURFACE 1 and reSURFACE 2) were randomized, placebo-controlled, multicenter, three-part studies designed to evaluate efficacy and safety of ILUMYATM 100 mg and 200 mg in moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis compared to placebo and comparative drug, and to assess safety and tolerability. Researchers evaluated (Psoriasis Area Sensitivity Index or PASI 75) and Physician's Global Assessment (PGA) response (score of 0 or 1 with ≥2 grade reduction from baseline) and incidence rates for pre-specified adverse events, including severe infections, cardiovascular events, and drug-related hypersensitivities.

Both Phase-3 studies met the primary efficacy endpoints, demonstrating significant clinical improvement with ILUMYA™ 100 mg compared to placebo when measured by at least 75 percent of skin clearance (Psoriasis Area Sensitivity Index or PASI 75) and Physician's Global Assessment (PGA) score of "clear" or "minimal" at week 12 after two doses. ILUMYATM was well tolerated with low rates of adverse events.

ILUMYATM has also been approved in Australia, and in Europe under the brand name ILUMETRITM. 

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