Update on Ustekinumab for Psoriasis

Abstract

Purpose of Review: This review will highlight the latest data on ustekinumab, as well as provide anecdotal evidence and insight into unanswered questions regarding its safety and the populations’ best suited for its use. Recent Findings: In numerous clinical trials, ustekinumab has been found to be safe and efficacious. Many targeted psoriasis medications affecting the same pathway have since been approved as treatments. Recent data supports the notion that ustekinumab does not increase risk of cardiovascular events, and in fact, may be protective against them. Summary: Targeted biologic medications for psoriasis have given insight into the complex interactions of the immune system. With these medications, patients suffering from psoriasis can now achieve up to 100 % skin clearance. Ustekinumab (Stelara®; Janssen Biotech, Inc.), a fully human monoclonal antibody against the p40 subunit of interleukin (IL) 12 and IL 23, was approved in 2009 for the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis and has become a standard against which other biologics are tested. Future studies should be directed toward exploring the long-term safety of ustekinumab, as well as efficacy of ustekinumab beyond 5 years of therapy.