Johnson & Johnson reports promising psoriasis drug trial

SPRING HOUSE, Pa. - Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ) has released new data from their Phase 3 ICONIC-TOTAL study on icotrokinra, a novel investigational oral peptide designed to treat plaque psoriasis. The study focused on individuals aged 12 and older with moderate plaque psoriasis affecting critical areas such as the scalp and genitals.

According to findings presented at the Society for Investigative Dermatology Annual Meeting, 57% of participants treated with icotrokinra daily achieved clear or almost clear skin at Week 16, a significant improvement compared to the 6% who received a placebo. Notably, 66% of patients with scalp psoriasis and 77% with genital psoriasis reached these skin clearance levels, surpassing the placebo group’s 11% and 21%, respectively.

The study’s lead investigator, Dr. Melinda Gooderham, highlighted the challenges of treating high-impact psoriasis sites and the impressive clearance rates demonstrated by icotrokinra. The drug also showed a favorable safety profile, with adverse events comparable to placebo and no new safety signals observed.

Liza O’Dowd, MD, of Johnson & Johnson, emphasized the potential of icotrokinra to change the treatment landscape for moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis by combining skin clearance benefits with a safe profile in a once-daily pill form.

The ICONIC-TOTAL study is part of a broader Phase 3 ICONIC clinical development program, which includes other studies comparing icotrokinra with placebo and other treatments across various psoriasis types.

Plaque psoriasis is a chronic condition affecting millions worldwide, with significant physical and emotional impacts. Icotrokinra, selectively targeting the IL-23 receptor, represents a potential new class of treatment.

These findings are based on a press release statement and have not been independently verified. The data from the ICONIC-TOTAL study adds to the growing body of evidence supporting icotrokinra’s efficacy and safety, although it remains investigational and not yet approved for commercial use. InvestingPro analysis indicates Johnson & Johnson maintains a strong financial health score of "GOOD," with stable cash flows and moderate debt levels. The stock currently appears undervalued according to InvestingPro’s Fair Value analysis, while offering investors the security of low price volatility. For deeper insights into JNJ’s investment potential and access to 8 additional exclusive ProTips, consider exploring the comprehensive Pro Research Report available on InvestingPro.

In other recent news, Johnson & Johnson reported significant developments across various medical treatments and financial strategies. The company announced promising results from its Phase 3 QUASAR and ASTRO studies of TREMFYA®, demonstrating sustained clinical and endoscopic remission in patients with ulcerative colitis, with no new safety concerns identified. Additionally, the FDA approved Johnson & Johnson’s IMAAVY™ for treating generalized myasthenia gravis, supported by data showing long-lasting disease control. In financial news, S&P Global Ratings reaffirmed Johnson & Johnson’s ’AAA’ credit rating, assigning a stable outlook following the acquisition of Intra-Cellular Therapies for $14.6 billion. This acquisition is part of the company’s strategy to enhance its neuroscience franchise. Furthermore, Johnson & Johnson presented positive Phase 2b study results for TAR-200, a treatment for bladder cancer, highlighting its potential for patients with high-risk non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer. The FDA has granted Breakthrough Therapy Designation for TAR-200, with ongoing evaluations in Phase 2 and Phase 3 studies. These developments underscore Johnson & Johnson’s ongoing efforts in advancing healthcare treatments and maintaining financial stability.

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