Guselkumab, an interleukin-23 (IL-23) inhibitor developed by Janssen, has shown benefits for post-tumour necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitor-treated psoriatic arthritis (PsA) patients.


In the Phase IIIb COSMOS study, the safety and efficacy of guselkumab – marketed as Tremfya – was evaluated in 285 patients with active PsA, who had experienced inadequate responses to tumour necrosis factor inhibition (TNFi). 
 

Patient treated with guselkumab showed significant improvements in joint symptoms and helped patients achieved complete skin clearance compared to placebo at week 24. 
 

At week 24, the proportion of patients with greater than or equal to 3% body surface areas psoriatic involvement in an Investigator’s Global Assessment (IGA) score =2 at baseline who achieved compete skin clearance was greater among those receiving Tremfya compared to placebo.


In addition, 53.4% of patients receiving Guselkumab after one year had 100% improvement in Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI 100) response rates. 
 

“People with PsA live with joint, skin, and soft tissue symptoms, but also experience impacts on physical function and social and psychological well-being. We are committed to continuing our research in PsA to advance therapeutic options that may help more patients reach their treatment goals,” said Alyssa Johnsen, vice president and rheumatology disease area leader, Janssen Research & Development.