UCB's bimekizumab-bkzx (Bimzelx) has received FDA approval for a new 320 mg single-injection delivery option, offering enhanced convenience for patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. The approval, announced on October 14, 2024, includes a 2 mL pre-filled syringe and autoinjector, each containing a 320 mg dose of bimekizumab-bkzx. This advancement aims to streamline the treatment process and improve the patient experience by reducing the frequency of injections.
Streamlined Administration
The new 320 mg single-injection option is a significant enhancement over the previously available 1 mL administration options, which contain 160 mg of bimekizumab-bkzx. Patients requiring a maintenance dose of 320 mg will now have the option of a single injection every eight weeks, aligning with modern expectations for therapeutic convenience. Emmanuel Caeymaex, Executive Vice President, Head of Patient Impact, Chief Commercial Officer at UCB, stated, “Our goal with these single-injection regimens is to strengthen and expand administration options, increase convenience, and enhance the individual patient experience.”
Clinical Evidence and Indications
The FDA's approval was supported by robust clinical data assessing the bioequivalence of bimekizumab-bkzx administered as a single 2 mL subcutaneous injection versus two 1 mL subcutaneous injections in healthy participants. This scientific backing validates the efficacy of the new delivery system and supports its integration into clinical practice. The 320 mg dose of bimekizumab-bkzx is indicated for adults with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis and adults with active psoriatic arthritis who also have moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. For other indications, including adults with active psoriatic arthritis, non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis, a 160 mg dose is recommended.
Mechanism of Action
Bimekizumab-bkzx is a humanized IgG1 monoclonal antibody that selectively targets and binds to the cytokines IL-17A, IL-17F, and IL-17AF. By blocking their interaction with the IL-17RA/IL-17RC receptor complex, bimekizumab-bkzx addresses the underlying inflammation associated with plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Elevated levels of these cytokines are notably present in lesional psoriatic skin, making this mechanism particularly relevant in the treatment of these conditions.
Availability
UCB anticipates that these new device presentations will be available in the U.S. in Q1 2025. This approval follows a similar endorsement from the European Commission in August 2024, marking a significant step in expanding treatment options for patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.
