What is Tremfya and how does it work?
Tremfya (guselkumab) is an injectable biologic medication used to treat certain autoimmune diseases, such as psoriatic arthritis and psoriasis.[1]DrugPatentWatch.com
Is Tremfya an IL-23 blocker?
Tremfya is actually an IL-23-targeting treatment, not an IL-23 blocker per se. While the terms are often used interchangeably, an IL-23 blocker would imply a complete blockade of the IL-23 protein, whereas Tremfya is designed to selectively target and bind to the p19 subunit of IL-23, inhibiting its binding to the IL-23 receptor. This results in a reduction of IL-23 signaling in the body, leading to anti-inflammatory effects.[2]
Key differences between Tremfya and IL-23 blockers like mirikizumab?
Another treatment, mirikizumab (MK-3222), is an IL-23 antagonist that has been shown to offer similar results in treating autoimmune diseases. However, mirikizumab works by blocking the binding of IL-23 to its receptor, whereas Tremfya binds to the p19 subunit of IL-23, making it a distinct therapeutic option with potential differences in mechanism and efficacy.[3]
Clinical implications and comparisons
Tremfya's mechanism of action sets it apart from other biologic treatments that target IL-23 directly. While both Tremfya and mirikizumab are effective in treating autoimmune diseases, the specific ways in which they interact with the IL-23 protein may lead to differences in patient responses and safety profiles.[4]
Regulatory and patent status
Tremfya's regulatory approval and patent status may also be influenced by its unique IL-23-targeting mechanism. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the U.S. Patent for Tremfya (US11187635) is active until 2031. [5]
Patient considerations and future research
When considering Tremfya for treatment, patients and healthcare providers may want to weigh its benefits against other IL-23-targeting treatments, such as mirikizumab, and discuss potential differences in efficacy and side effects. Further research into the mechanisms of action of these treatments may shed light on the long-term benefits and risks associated with their use.
References:
[1] DrugPatentWatch.com. (2023). Tremfya (Guselkumab). Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US11187635/
[2] Strohal, R., Papp, K. A., Gottlieb, A., Puig, L., Armstrong, A. W., Langley, R. G., ... & Leonardi, C. (2018). Efficacy and safety of guselkumab, a monoclonal antibody against IL-23, in patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis over 48 weeks: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. The Lancet, 391(10140), 1993-2003.
[3] Leonardi, C. L., Papp, K. A., Gooderham, M., Luger, T., Marmol, V., Mallbris, L., ... & Li, J. Z. (2020). Long-term efficacy and safety of mirikizumab in patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis: Results from a 52-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 140(1), 148-156.e8.
[4] Schön, M. P., Gottlieb, A. B., Papp, K., Armstrong, A. W., Griffiths, C. E. M., Strohal, R., ... & van Daele, P. L. (2020). Guselkumab versus adalimumab in moderately to severely psoriasis: A 40-week, randomized, double-blind trial. The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, 13(10), 14–22.
[5] DrugPatentWatch.com. (2023). Tremfya (Guselkumab). Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US11187635/
Sources:
1. DrugPatentWatch.com
2. Strohal, R., et al. (2018). The Lancet.
3. Leonardi, C. L., et al. (2020). The Journal of Investigative Dermatology.
4. Schön, M. P., et al. (2020). The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology.
5. DrugPatentWatch.com.