Tildrakizumab: An Evidence-Based Review of Its Use in the Treatment of Moderate-to-Severe Chronic Plaque Psoriasis

Psoriasis management tree based on comorbidity

Psoriasis, a common chronic inflammatory skin disorder, encompasses various subtypes, including guttate, pustular, erythrodermic, and the most common type, plaque psoriasis. Irrespective of the subtype, psoriasis can manifest with multisystemic presentations, including psoriatic arthritis, metabolic disorders, cardiovascular disease, malignancies, chronic kidney disease (CKD), psychiatric illness, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Many comorbidities and concomitant conditions must be considered when selecting the most appropriate therapy for a patient (Kaushik et al., 2019 and Monks et al., 2021) . Ongoing clinical trials and the development of new therapeutic targets contribute to the continuous improvement of available treatment options. Given the dynamic landscape of therapies, particularly when managing complex patients with multiple comorbidities, dermatologists are constantly challenged with the task of adeptly tailoring treatments to each psoriasis patient. This article systematically reviews the current evidence, presenting it as an updated Psoriasis Decision Tree to assist physicians in selecting tailored treatment options.

Effectiveness of tildrakizumab 200 mg: an Italian multicenter study

Introduction: Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated disease that can be challenging to treat, especially in patients with severe disease or high body weight. Tildrakizumab is a monoclonal antibody which inhibits IL-23, approved for moderate-to-severe psoriasis with a standard 100 mg dose. A 200 mg dose may provide greater efficacy for patients over 90 kg or with high disease burden.

Methods: This multicenter, prospective study evaluated the effectiveness and safety of tildrakizumab 200 mg in patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis, focusing on those with specific challenges: body weight over 90 kg, baseline PASI ≥20, and difficult-to-treat areas. The study also compared bio-naive versus bio-experienced and male versus female patients. Adults received tildrakizumab 200 mg subcutaneously at weeks 0 and 4, then every 12 weeks.

Results: Clinical improvements were assessed using PASI, DLQI, genital PASI, and NAPSI scores. After 24 weeks, the mean PASI score dropped from 14.6 to 0.4, with PASI 90 and PASI 100 scores exceeding 80% (100.0% and 80.3%, respectively). DLQI scores improved from 14.2 to 1.8, and significant improvements were seen in genital PASI and NAPSI scores. No significant adverse events occurred.

Conclusions: Tildrakizumab 200 has been shown to be an effective therapeutic option, particularly for patients with high body weight, significant disease burden, and involvement of sensitive areas with no new safety signals.

Novel anti-psoriasis agent-associated cardiotoxicity, analysis of the FDA adverse event reporting system (FAERS)

INTRODUCTION

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition characterized by hyperproliferation of epidermal keratinocytes, resulting in erythematous and scaling lesions. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved nine biologic agents to address the burden of psoriasis, but their cardiovascular risks remain poorly studied.

METHODS

This retrospective pharmacovigilance study utilized the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database to analyze adverse events associated with newly approved therapeutic agents for psoriasis. We employed disproportionally signal analysis, calculating the reporting odds ratio (ROR) with a 95% confidence interval.

RESULTS

Among the vast FAERS database, which contained >25 million adverse events, a total of 334,399 events were associated with newly approved therapeutic agents for psoriasis. Cardiac adverse events accounted for 3852 cases, including pericarditis, atrial fibrillation, and coronary artery disease. Secukinumab had the highest number of reported adverse events, followed by brodalumab, while tildrakizumab had the lowest. Coronary artery disease was the most reported adverse event (1438 cases), followed by pericarditis (572 cases) and atrial fibrillation (384 cases). Secukinumab had the highest incidence of coronary artery disease, pericarditis, and atrial fibrillation. Risankizumab was significantly associated with an increased risk of coronary artery disease and atrial fibrillation, while tildrakizumab and Ixekizumab were associated with atrial fibrillation. Secukinumab was associated with an elevated risk of pericarditis.

CONCLUSIONS

The study uncovers the cardiovascular adverse effects related to biologic agents used in psoriasis treatment. These findings emphasize the importance of monitoring and evaluating the cardiovascular safety profiles of biological agents used in psoriasis treatment.

The Role of Interleukin 23/17 Axis in Psoriasis Management: A Comprehensive Review of Clinical Trials

Psoriasis pathogenesis is influenced by genetic factors and characterized by a complex interplay between genetic predisposition and various environmental triggers. These triggers set off metabolic processes involving inflammation, cell signaling, immune response dysregulation, and antigen presentation. Several types of innate and adaptive immune cells are involved in psoriasis. Among the cytokine cascade which leads to psoriasis development, the interleukin (IL)-23/Th17 axis, especially IL-17 production, emerges as crucial. Recognizing the pivotal role of this axis has facilitated the development of selective and effective biological drugs, such as anti-IL17 and anti-IL23 monoclonal antibodies. These drugs aim to achieve the complete or near-complete disappearance of psoriatic lesions, as indicated by PASI100 and PASI90 responses, respectively. In this context, the aim of our review was to delve into the functioning of the IL-23/Th17 axis, its dysregulation in psoriasis pathogenesis, and the therapeutic potential of its inhibition. Currently, 4 anti-IL17 (secukinumab, ixekizumab, bimekizumab and brodalumab) and 3 anti-IL23 (guselkumab, risankizumab and tildrakizumab) have been approved. All these drugs showed high levels of effectiveness in both clinical trials and real-life experiences, with an excellent profile in terms of safety. Certainly, furthers studies will allow for better characterization of biologics' profile, in order to administer the right drug for the right patients at the right moment.

The Role of Cytokines in Cutaneous T Cell Lymphoma: A Focus on the State of the Art and Possible Therapeutic Targets

Cutaneous T cell lymphomas (CTCLs), encompassing mycosis fungoides (MF) and Sézary syndrome (SS), present a complex landscape influenced by cytokines and cellular responses. In this work, the intricate relationship between these inflammatory proteins and disease pathogenesis is examined, focusing on what is known at the clinical and therapeutic levels regarding the most well-known inflammatory mediators. An in-depth look is given to their possible alterations caused by novel immunomodulatory drugs and how they may alter disease progression. From this narrative review of the actual scientific landscape, Interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) emerges as a central player, demonstrating a dual role in both promoting and inhibiting cancer immunity, but the work navigates through all the major interleukins known in inflammatory environments. Immunotherapeutic perspectives are elucidated, highlighting the crucial role of the cutaneous microenvironment in shaping dysfunctional cell trafficking, antitumor immunity, and angiogenesis in MF, showcasing advancements in understanding and targeting the immune phenotype in CTCL. In summary, this manuscript aims to comprehensively explore the multifaceted aspects of CTCL, from the immunopathogenesis and cytokine dynamics centred around TNF-α and IFN-γ to evolving therapeutic modalities. Including all the major known and studied cytokines in this analysis broadens our understanding of the intricate interplay influencing CTCL, paving the way for improved management of this complex lymphoma.

Tildrakizumab: the value of a personalized and flexible approach for treating moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis in patients with high body weight or high disease burden

INTRODUCTION

The introduction of biologics for the treatment of plaque psoriasis is one of the major therapeutic advances of the last decades in dermatology. The efficacy of this class of drugs can be influenced by multiple factors including obesity, being overweight, prior treatment failures, and disease severity.

AREAS COVERED

Most of the currently available approved biologics are limited by their lack of dosing flexibility for adapting the therapy to the complexity of real-world patients with psoriasis. Among the class of anti-interleukin-23, tildrakizumab allows a greater dosing flexibility, increasing clinical benefits of patients with high burden of the disease or body weight >90 kg.

EXPERT OPINION

This meta-opinion discusses the clinical data that were foundational for tildrakizumab dosage flexibility, elaborates on the definition of high burden of disease specifically linked to tildrakizumab dosage, and profiles the ideal patient that could benefit from treatment with the higher approved tildrakizumab dosage of 200 mg.

An Overview of Contemporary and Future Therapeutic Strategies for Scalp Psoriasis

Scalp psoriasis is a common manifestation of psoriasis that significantly impacts a patient's quality of life. About 80% of cases of psoriasis involve the scalp, making it the most frequently affected area of the body. The treatment of scalp psoriasis is particularly crucial because of its hard-to-treat nature and substantial adverse impacts on overall well-being. Along with the physical symptoms of discomfort and itching, psoriasis, especially when it affects the scalp, can cause severe psychological damage. Treating scalp psoriasis can be challenging due to its location and associated symptoms, such as scaling and pruritus, which is why various drugs have become widely used for refractory cases. Topical treatments like corticosteroids and vitamin D analogs manage scalp psoriasis by reducing inflammation and regulating skin cell growth. Tar-based shampoos, salicylic acid solutions, and moisturizers control scaling. Phototherapy with UVB light reduces inflammation. Severe cases may require systemic medications such as oral retinoids and immunosuppressants. While various therapies are accessible for scalp psoriasis, concerns arise due to their limited advantages and the absence of controlled studies assessing their effectiveness. Considering these challenges, there is a clear demand for innovative approaches to address this condition effectively. Recent advancements in topical therapies, phototherapy, systemic agents, and complementary therapies have shown promising results in managing scalp psoriasis. Also, the advent of biologics, specifically anti-IL-17 and anti-IL-23 drugs for scalp psoriasis, has seen significant improvements. The review highlights the lack of well-tolerated and effective treatments for scalp psoriasis and underscores the importance of further research in this area. The objective of this review is to clarify the different treatment options currently available or being investigated in clinical trials for managing scalp psoriasis.

Management Strategies for Pediatric Moderate-to-Severe Plaque Psoriasis: Spotlight on Biologics

Although psoriasis onset has been reported at any ages, in up to one-third of cases, it begins during childhood, with an estimated prevalence of about 2% in pediatric population. The management of moderate-to-severe forms of childhood psoriasis may represent a challenge for dermatologists, especially for parents' concerns about the need of systemic treatments. However, a prompt safe and effective treatment is mandatory in these patients, due to the significative impact that psoriasis may have on their quality of life, with well-known consequences on psychological health of both patients and caregivers. Due to the relatively frequent parents' refusal of systemic treatments, probably due to the fear of eventual adverse events, difficulties of oral or injective route, the management of moderate-to-severe forms still represents a challenge. Herein, we report a narrative review, aiming to resume the systemic treatments for pediatric psoriasis, focusing on the use of biologics and small molecules in the pediatric ages. The most widely used therapeutic strategies today for the pediatric population with moderate-severe psoriasis are traditional systemic therapies, while more innovative drugs such as biologics and small molecules now represent a somewhat unexplored but certainly promising field for unresponsive patients.

The role of inflammation in autoimmune disease: a therapeutic target

Autoimmune diseases (AIDs) are immune disorders whose incidence and prevalence are increasing year by year. AIDs are produced by the immune system's misidentification of self-antigens, seemingly caused by excessive immune function, but in fact they are the result of reduced accuracy due to the decline in immune system function, which cannot clearly identify foreign invaders and self-antigens, thus issuing false attacks, and eventually leading to disease. The occurrence of AIDs is often accompanied by the emergence of inflammation, and inflammatory mediators (inflammatory factors, inflammasomes) play an important role in the pathogenesis of AIDs, which mediate the immune process by affecting innate cells (such as macrophages) and adaptive cells (such as T and B cells), and ultimately promote the occurrence of autoimmune responses, so targeting inflammatory mediators/pathways is one of emerging the treatment strategies of AIDs. This review will briefly describe the role of inflammation in the pathogenesis of different AIDs, and give a rough introduction to inhibitors targeting inflammatory factors, hoping to have reference significance for subsequent treatment options for AIDs.

Novel therapies for metastatic prostate cancer

INTRODUCTION

Patients with metastatic prostate cancer, especially in the castrate-resistant setting, have a poor prognosis. Many agents have been approved for metastatic prostate cancer, such as androgen receptor pathway inhibitors, taxane-based chemotherapy, radiopharmaceuticals, and immunotherapy. However, prostate cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths in nonsmoking men. Fortunately, many more novel agents are under investigation.

AREAS COVERED

We provide an overview of the broad group of novel therapies for metastatic prostate cancer, with an emphasis on active and recruiting clinical trials that have been recently published and/or presented at national or international meetings.

EXPERT OPINION

The future for patients with metastatic prostate cancer is promising, with further development of novel therapies such as radiopharmaceuticals. Based on a growing understanding of prostate cancer biology, novel agents are being designed to overcome resistance to approved therapies. There are many trials using novel agents either as monotherapy or in combination with already approved agents with potential to further improve outcomes for men with advanced prostate cancer.

Drug safety evaluation of tildrakizumab for psoriasis: a review of the current knowledge

INTRODUCTION

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that may have an important negative impact on a patient's quality of life. Biological agents deeply changed the management of its moderate-to-severe forms. Interleukin-23 inhibitors represent the latest biologics class approved for the treatment of moderate-to-severe psoriasis. In particular, tildrakizumab, the latest available anti-interleukin-23 on the Italian market, is a humanized monoclonal antibody specifically targeting the p19 subunit of IL-23.

AREAS COVERED

The objective of this review is to evaluate the safety profile of tildrakizumab in moderate-to-severe psoriasis patients. A literature review included articles until July 2022.

EXPERT OPINION

Our analysis showed tildrakizumab as a generally safe option for the treatment of psoriasis, with most of the reported adverse events being classified as mild or moderate, and rarely requiring treatment discontinuation. Furthermore, in line with other interleukin-23 inhibitor, no concerns have been raised for tildrakizumab in regard to inflammatory bowel diseases, which represent a significant comorbidity to investigate before starting other biologics (IL-17 inhibitors). However, more real-life long-term data are needed to confirm trial results to further confirm tildrakizumab as a generally safe treatment option for psoriasis.

A Retrospective Real-World Study of the Effectiveness and Tolerability of Tildrakizumab in UK Adults with Moderate-to-Severe Chronic Plaque Psoriasis

Introduction

As with most medicines historically, clinicians prescribing tildrakizumab have relied on information derived from registration studies undertaken in a prospective controlled clinical trial setting. More recently, clinicians, policymakers, and commissioners increasingly rely on real-world data to inform both policy and practice.

Methods

A retrospective real-world data study was undertaken at four specialist dermatology departments in the United Kingdom. All adult patients treated with tildrakizumab for moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis were included, with data being collected for 122 patients.

Results

Psoriatic patients on tildrakizumab tended to be overweight (median body mass index of 32 (range 19–59) (n = 61); 26/68 (38%) < 90 kg, 32/68 (47%) between 90 and 120 kg, and 10/68 (15%) > 120 kg). The study population had high levels of comorbidities (83/116, 72%), multiple special sites (39/117, 33%), and histories of biological treatments (81/100, 81%). Most patients (61/80, 76%) initiated on tildrakizumab were switched from another biological treatment. Tildrakizumab was effective, with 91/122 (75%) patients remaining on treatment for the duration of the study—a median of 12 months per patient (range 1–29 months)—and achieving a change in median Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) from 12 to 0.35 and in Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) from 20 to 0. The response rate was 57/66 (86%) when tildrakizumab was used as the first- or second-line biologic compared to 19/31 (61%) when used as the third- to seventh-line. Thirty-three (78.6%) patients over 90 kg of weight received the 200-mg dose of tildrakizumab. All but one (n = 8) patient with body weight over 120 kg maintained response over time. There was one treatment discontinuation; a patient who had a local sensitivity reaction.

Conclusions

In UK clinical practice, tildrakizumab was well tolerated and effective at doses of 100 mg or 200 mg in a range of patient phenotypes.

Retrospective Analysis in Patients With Moderate to Severe Plaque Psoriasis Treated With Tildrakizumab: Real-Life Clinical Data

Background: Interleukin (IL)-23 antagonists have shown great efficacy with minimal side effect profile in clinical trial data for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. As of yet, there have been no published data regarding real-world patients who have received tildrakizumab therapy. Objectives: To analyze real-world efficacy and safety of tildrakizumab in patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed at a large urban academic medical center for all patients treated with tildrakizumab for moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. Demographic information, Psoriasis Area and Severity Indexs(PASIs) from initial presentation and 12-month follow-up, comorbidities, and any possible adverse events were collected and analyzed statistically. Results: 30 patients on tildrakizumab therapy were included in the analysis. Overall, the mean ± standard deviation of the PASIs was 15.8 ± 11.8 at initial visit and 1.5 ± 2.9 at 12-month follow-up (P < .001). No serious adverse events were reported. Conclusions: Tildrakizumab has shown efficacy in clinical trials and this real-world cohort for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis with a good safety profile. Future studies should be done to assess the efficacy of tildrakizumab compared with other IL-23 inhibitors.

Tildrakizumab for treatment of moderate to severe psoriasis: an expert opinion of efficacy, safety, and use in special populations

INTRODUCTION

Tildrakizumab is a monoclonal antibody that targets the p19 subunit of IL-23, a crucial cytokine for Th17 cells. Tildrakizumab has been assessed in several Phase I, II, and III clinical trials and is approved for treatment of adults with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who are indicated for systemic therapy.

AREAS COVERED

The available evidence on the efficacy, safety, and use of tildrakizumab in special populations was evaluated by 14 experts who critically reviewed the current literature.

EXPERT OPINION

Tildrakizumab has good efficacy that lasts for at least 5 years in patients with moderate to severe psoriasis, and appears to be safe and well tolerated in the long-term with no apparent dose-related differences in adverse events, a low incidence of discontinuation due to adverse events, and no evidence of increased risk of malignancies. The safety and the efficacy of tildrakizumab has also been confirmed in special populations such as those with inflammatory bowel disease, cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, and advanced age. Early intervention with IL-23-inhibitors, such as tildrakizumab, may help to control symptoms and change the long-term course of the disease in patients affected by plaque psoriasis, while improving the quality of life and potentially minimizing the risk of developing comorbidities.