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Biopharmaceutical company Incyte has recently revealed promising results from a clinical trial focusing on the safety and efficacy of povorcitinib in adult patients with extensive vitiligo. The findings were presented at the American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting, held from March 17-21, 2023 in New Orleans.
Povorcitinib is a potent and selective Janus kinase inhibitor that also displays anti-inflammatory activity. While Incyte’s approved JAK drugs, Jakafi and Eli Lilly-partnered Olumiant, block both JAK1 and JAK2, povorcitinib only hits JAK1. The candidate is currently in phase II studies for vitiligo (INCB54707), hidradenitis suppurativa and prurigo nodularis. By inhibiting JAK1, povorcitinib aims to modulate the immune response and potentially reduce the inflammation and progression of these conditions.
The Phase 2b study showed significant improvements in total body and facial repigmentation for patients with extensive nonsegmental vitiligo. Povorcitinib met its primary endpoint, demonstrating superior T-VASI scores at Week 24 compared to placebo. More patients also achieved the key secondary endpoint of T-VASI50 at Week 24 and continued to improve during an open-label extension period.
Povorcitinib was generally well tolerated. The most common treatment-emergent adverse events during the 24-week period were COVID-19 (16.7%), headache (10.3%), fatigue (9.5%), blood creatine phosphokinase increased (7.9%), and acne (7.1%). No serious adverse effects were considered related to povorcitinib treatment, with no safety concerns noted after Week 24.
Stay tuned for further updates on this promising investigational therapy.
FAQOther Questions
- How can I explain vitiligo to my children?
Vitiligo can be puzzling for a child because a person who has it isn't "ill" in a common sense. To choose the right words to explain vitiligo diagnosis to a child, first consi...
- Is it possible to stop the progression of vitiligo?
The best way to stop the progression of vitiligo before initiating repigmentation therapy is through the use of oral corticosteroids or immunosuppressive drugs. Specifically: ...
- What are risks of oral and topical corticosteroids?
Corticosteroid drugs (like hydrocortisone, and others) are often used for treating vitiligo. By mimicing the effects of hormones your body produces naturally in your adrenal gla...
Though it is not always easy to treat vitiligo, there is much to be gained by clearly understanding the diagnosis, the future implications, treatment options and their outcomes.
Many people deal with vitiligo while remaining in the public eye, maintaining a positive outlook, and having a successful career.
Copyright (C) Bodolóczki JúliaBy taking a little time to fill in the anonymous questionnaire, you can help researchers better understand and fight vitiligo.