What class is Tremfya (guselkumab) in?
Tremfya is an immunology drug in the class of biologic therapies called an interleukin-23 (IL-23) inhibitor. It works by blocking IL-23, a signaling protein involved in inflammatory pathways linked to certain autoimmune diseases.
What conditions is Tremfya used for (based on its drug class)?
Because it targets IL-23, Tremfya is used for inflammatory conditions where IL-23 is a key driver, including plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis (the typical labeled uses for IL-23–targeting therapies).
How does Tremfya’s class compare with other psoriasis biologics?
Tremfya differs by mechanism from other common psoriasis biologic classes:
- TNF-alpha inhibitors block tumor necrosis factor-alpha.
- IL-17 inhibitors block IL-17 signaling.
- IL-23 inhibitors (like Tremfya) block IL-23 specifically.
What does “IL-23 inhibitor” mean for how the drug works?
By blocking IL-23, Tremfya reduces activation of downstream immune responses that contribute to inflammation and the skin and joint symptoms seen in these diseases.
Is Tremfya the only IL-23 inhibitor?
No. IL-23 inhibitors are a broader drug class, and other IL-23–targeting biologics exist with different molecules and dosing schedules.
How to identify the drug class quickly
If you see “guselkumab” or “IL-23 inhibitor” associated with Tremfya, that points directly to its drug class: an IL-23–blocking monoclonal antibody.