J&J's once-daily pill eases psoriatic arthritis symptoms in late-stage trial

what happened

Johnson & Johnson said on Saturday that its once-daily pill eased psoriatic arthritis symptoms in more patients than a placebo in a late-stage trial, according to Reuters. The company said 58% of patients taking icotrokinra, sold as Icotyde, saw a 20% improvement in tender and swollen joint counts after 16 weeks, versus 41% on placebo. The trial included 552 patients.

Icotyde is already approved by the FDA for moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. The company expects peak sales above $5 billion across several indications. David Lee, J&J's global immunology head, said the oral format could be a more convenient option than injectable biologics such as AbbVie's Skyrizi and UCB's Bimzelx.

why it matters

For investors, this is a step toward wider use of a drug that analysts see as J&J's next major hit. The company reported no new safety concerns. Because these are results from a single late-stage trial, future regulatory approvals will be the next key markers for the market.

market impact

J&J shares: positive new-indication data supports expectations for future sales growth

• ▲Johnson & Johnson shares pressure up — positive new-indication data strengthens expectations for sales growth

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