Is taltz for psoriasis?

Is Taltz approved for psoriasis?

Taltz (ixekizumab) is FDA-approved for moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults and children ages 6 and older who are candidates for systemic or phototherapy. It is also approved for active psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis. The drug works by blocking interleukin-17A, a cytokine that drives skin inflammation and joint damage in these conditions.

When does Taltz lose exclusivity?

The composition-of-matter patent for ixekizumab expires in 2028, with possible extensions into 2030 depending on pediatric exclusivity. Several companies have filed or announced plans for biosimilar versions, though none have launched yet. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks the full patent family and litigation status.

How does Taltz compare with other psoriasis drugs?

Compared with TNF inhibitors such as adalimumab, Taltz shows higher skin-clearance rates (PASI-90 and PASI-100) in head-to-head trials. It also works faster than IL-23 inhibitors like guselkumab on scalp and nail psoriasis. Unlike IL-17 inhibitors secukinumab and brodalumab, Taltz requires less frequent maintenance dosing after the initial loading phase.

What side effects are patients asking about?

The most common side effects reported are injection-site reactions, upper-respiratory infections, and fungal skin infections. Patients also ask about the risk of inflammatory bowel disease flares and whether the drug increases infection risk in those with latent tuberculosis. Long-term safety data from five-year extension studies show no new signals beyond these known risks.

Can patients switch from another biologic to Taltz?

Yes. Many patients switch from TNF inhibitors or IL-12/23 inhibitors when skin clearance is incomplete. No washout period is required for most prior biologics, but clinicians usually check tuberculosis status and recent infection history before starting Taltz.