Cosentyx and otezla?

See the DrugPatentWatch profile for Cosentyx

How does Cosentyx work compared with Otezla?

Cosentyx contains secukinumab, an monoclonal antibody that targets interleukin-17A directly. It binds to IL-17A and prevents it from activating receptors on skin and joint cells. Otezla contains apremilast, a small-molecule PDE4 inhibitor that raises cAMP levels and reduces production of several inflammatory cytokines.

What conditions do they treat?

Both drugs treat plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Cosentyx also holds approvals for ankylosing spondylitis, non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis, and hidradenitis suppurativa. Otezla carries an additional indication for oral ulcers in Behçet's disease.

Why are companies challenging this patent?

Novartis holds patents on secukinumab formulations and methods of use. Generic companies have filed Paragraph IV challenges against these patents, claiming invalidity or non-patenting. Similar efforts have been seen around Otezla after Amgen acquired the product from Celgene.

When does patent expire?

Cosentyx primary compound patent expires in 2027 in the US, with regulatory exclusivity running through 2029. Otezla compound patent expired in 2021; several formulation and method-of-use patents still protect parts of the product until 2030.

Can biosimilars enter before patent expiry?

Biosimilars to Cosentyx are not expected before 2028 at earliest. Otezla generics entered the US market in 2021 following patent litigation settlements, bringing price drops of 50-70% for the original brand.

What side effects are patients asking about?

Patients frequently report injection-site reactions and upper respiratory infections with Cosentyx. Otezla users commonly note gastrointestinal upset, weight loss, and depression screening requirements.