Tildrakizumab linked to improved outcomes in plaque psoriasis patients
Almirall, a global biopharmaceutical company specializing in medical dermatology, has announced significant progress in the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis with their drug, Ilumetri® (tildrakizumab). The positive results were presented at the 25th World Congress of Dermatology held in Singapore.
In the preliminary analysis of the POSITIVE study, tildrakizumab demonstrated a substantial improvement in the wellbeing of patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. After 16 weeks of treatment, patients achieved a level of wellbeing comparable to that of the general population, which was maintained up to week 28. The study also revealed significant improvements in skin symptoms and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among patients. Moreover, the safety profile of tildrakizumab remained consistent with previous randomized clinical trials, with no new safety concerns observed.
One noteworthy finding from the study was the revelation that the baseline wellbeing level of patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis was comparable to that of individuals with other diseases, including breast cancer. This insight highlights the substantial impact that psoriasis can have on a patient's overall wellbeing.
The POSITIVE study, a groundbreaking clinical trial in dermatology, assessed patients' wellbeing as the primary endpoint using the World Health Organization Wellbeing Index (WHO-5). This widely-used questionnaire evaluates subjective psychological wellbeing and provides a comprehensive understanding of the impact of psoriasis and its treatment on patients' lives. By incorporating a holistic and person-centered approach to assessing wellbeing, the study aims to enhance patient-clinician relationships and improve treatment outcomes.
Psoriasis affects approximately 60 million people worldwide, causing significant physical and psychological burdens. Patients often experience a negative impact on their daily activities, personal relationships, and overall wellbeing. The preliminary findings from the POSITIVE study offer hope for improving the lives of individuals with psoriasis by addressing their unmet needs and enhancing their health and quality of life.
Almirall's commitment to a holistic approach in treating dermatological conditions, including psoriasis, is reflected in their innovative solutions like tildrakizumab. The company's focus on improving patient quality of life and addressing the full impact of skin diseases has paved the way for advancements in dermatology research.
The POSITIVE study is an ongoing observational study involving approximately 780 adults with moderate-to-severe psoriasis across Europe. The study will follow these patients for 24 months, assessing the impact of tildrakizumab on wellbeing using the WHO-5 questionnaire, as well as evaluating its effects on family dynamics and physician satisfaction.
Almirall's Chief Medical Officer, Volker Koscielny, expressed his excitement about the preliminary findiengs, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach to treating psoriatic disease. He believes that Almirall's commitment to offering innovative solutions will continue to address the unmet needs of healthcare professionals and patients alike.
Source:
Antonio Costanzo, Aldo Cuccia, Esteban Daudén, Gabriella Fabbrocini, Raquel Rivera, Kristian Gaarn Du Jardin, Ismail Kasujee, Lluís Puig & José Manuel Carrascosa. Tildrakizumab demonstrates high efficacy and a favourable safety profile in patients with moderate-to-severe chronic plaque psoriasis in conditions close to real clinical practice. 25th World Congress of Dermatology. International League of Dermatological Societies
