Next-Generation Psoriasis Drugs Aim to Reshape Treatment Landscape

Icotrokinra (JNJ-2113), a first-in-class oral peptide blocking the IL-23 receptor, has shown superior efficacy compared to deucravacitinib and is now being tested head-to-head against injectable biologic ustekinumab in Phase 3 trials; nearly half of patients in studies achieved complete skin clearance at 24 weeks23.

Johnson & Johnson has submitted icotrokinra's New Drug Application to the FDA in July 2025, highlighting its potential to set a new treatment standard for adults and adolescents with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis due to convenience (once daily pill) and strong efficacy/safety data3.

Next-generation biologics targeting IL-17 (such as bimekizumab) and IL-23 (such as guselkumab and risankizumab) offer improved safety, fewer injections, better long-term skin clearance, and may reduce joint symptoms for psoriatic arthritis patients1.

Small-molecule therapies, especially TYK2 inhibitors like deucravacitinib, provide effective oral alternatives to injectable drugs and have demonstrated high efficacy and favorable safety profiles1.

Additional innovative drugs, like vunakizumab (IL-17 inhibitor, approved in China in August 2024) and piclidenoson (A3 adenosine receptor agonist, oral tablet) are progressing through advanced clinical trials, with piclidenoson expected to seek FDA approval after its next Phase 3 study5.

Sources:

1. https://trilliumclinic.com/advances-in-psoriasis-treatment-for-2025/

2. https://www.jnj.com/media-center/press-releases/icotrokinra-results-show-potential-to-set-a-new-standard-of-treatment-in-plaque-psoriasis

3. https://www.jnj.com/media-center/press-releases/johnson-johnson-seeks-first-icotrokinra-u-s-fda-approval-aiming-to-revolutionize-treatment-paradigm-for-adults-and-adolescents-with-plaque-psoriasis

5. https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/psoriasis/new-psoriasis-medications