The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Bimzelx (bimekizumab-bkzx) for the treatment of adults with moderate-to-severe hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). This marks the fifth indication for Bimzelx in the U.S., expanding its use beyond plaque psoriasis.
The approval is supported by data from two Phase 3 studies, BE HEARD I and BE HEARD II, which evaluated the efficacy and safety of Bimzelx in adults with moderate-to-severe HS. These trials demonstrated significant improvements in signs and symptoms of HS among patients treated with Bimzelx compared to placebo.
Bimzelx, developed by UCB, is a humanized monoclonal IgG1 antibody that selectively inhibits both interleukin-17A (IL-17A) and interleukin-17F (IL-17F), two key cytokines involved in inflammatory processes. By blocking these cytokines, Bimzelx helps to reduce inflammation and alleviate the symptoms associated with HS.
Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic, inflammatory skin disease characterized by painful nodules, abscesses, and draining tunnels, primarily affecting areas such as the armpits, groin, and buttocks. The condition can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, causing pain, discomfort, and social stigma. Current treatment options for HS are limited, highlighting the need for new and effective therapies.
Bimzelx was first approved in the U.S. in October 2023 for the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis in adults who are candidates for systemic therapy or phototherapy. The recent approval for HS further establishes Bimzelx as a valuable treatment option for patients suffering from chronic inflammatory conditions.
