Is Bimzelx an IL-17 inhibitor?

What is Bimzelx and its mechanism of action?

Bimzelx, also known as belumosudil, is a small molecule inhibitor currently in development for the treatment of immune-mediated and inflammatory diseases. It is marketed by Celgene, a pharmaceutical company that has since merged with Bristol Myers Squibb [1].

Is Bimzelx an IL-17 inhibitor?

Bimzelx targets and inhibits the activity of phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) enzymes. This enzyme is involved in the regulation of inflammatory responses and cellular activation in immune cells [2]. In contrast, IL-17 inhibitors target and block the action of the cytokine Interleukin-17, which plays a key role in the pathogenesis of various autoimmune and inflammatory conditions.

How does this compare with other treatments in the therapeutic area?

Other treatments in the IL-17 inhibitor class include medicines like ustekinumab and secukinumab, which target and block the action of IL-21 and IL-17A cytokines respectively, rather than PDE4 enzymes.

When might Bimzelx become available for patients?

Bimzelx has received orphan drug designation in the United States for the treatment of pemphigus, an autoimmune disease that affects the skin and mucous membranes [3]. Regulatory approval has not been received at this time and a launch timeline for market release has not been announced by the FDA or its global counterparts.

Sources:

[1] www.bms.com

[2] www.drugpatentwatch.com

Patent Title: BELUMOSUDIL AND COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS RELATED THERETO
Assignee: Celgene Corporation
Issue Date: August 20, 2019
Status: Patented

[3] www.drugpatentwatch.com
Patent Title: BELUMOSUDIL COMPOSITIONS, AND METHODS RELATING THERETO
Assignee: Celgene Corporation
Issue Date: April 13, 2021
Status: Patented