The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Bimzelx (bimekizumab-bkzx) for the treatment of moderate-to-severe hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) in adult patients. This approval marks a significant advancement in the treatment landscape for this chronic and often debilitating inflammatory skin condition.
Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic autoimmune condition affecting approximately 1% of the U.S. population, characterized by painful nodules, abscesses, and pus-filled channels, primarily in areas such as the armpits, groin, and buttocks. These flare-ups can lead to scarring and significantly impact patients' quality of life. The condition is more prevalent in women and typically begins around puberty.
Mechanism of Action
Bimzelx is a humanized IgG1 monoclonal antibody that selectively binds to three different inflammatory cytokines associated with HS. By targeting these cytokines, Bimzelx reduces inflammation, addressing a key driver of the disease.
Clinical Trial Data
The FDA's approval was based on data from two Phase 3 clinical trials, BE HEARD I and BE HEARD II, which collectively enrolled 1,014 participants. The trials demonstrated that Bimzelx significantly improved HS symptoms compared to placebo. Specifically, patients treated with Bimzelx experienced at least a 50% reduction in HS symptoms within 16 weeks, a result that was sustained through week 48. The primary endpoint was measured using HiSCR50, which requires a 50% to 75% reduction in abscess and nodule counts.
Alexa B. Kimball, M.D., M.P.H., from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and a lead author of the studies, noted, "The approval of Bimzelx in moderate-to-severe hidradenitis suppurativa is welcome given the substantial unmet clinical needs and limited number of treatment options available today."
Dosage and Administration
The recommended dosage for Bimzelx is a 320 mg subcutaneous injection administered every two weeks until week 16, starting at week zero. Following this initial period, the injection frequency changes to every eight weeks. Patients weighing over 265 lbs may require more frequent injections, administered every four weeks.
Safety Profile
Safety was evaluated in two placebo-controlled trials involving 839 subjects, with 670 receiving Bimzelx. The most common adverse reactions reported were upper respiratory tract infections (15%), oral candidiasis (9%), and headache (3%).
Pricing and Access
The list price for Bimzelx is $7,552.80 per 1 mL auto-injector or syringe. Actual costs for patients will vary depending on insurance coverage. The manufacturer, UCB, offers a program to provide Bimzelx for $15 a dose for two years if insurance coverage is delayed or denied.
