Bimekizumab for the treatment of psoriatic disease

Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis are common diseases with significant physical and emotional burden. Several biologics are FDA-approved to treat psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, though some patients remain refractory to, or have lost response to, therapy and/or cannot tolerate the associated risks and side effects. Bimekizumab is a new biologic that inhibits both IL-17A and IL-17F. It is currently in phase III clinical trials. To date, phase II studies show promise in its ability to rapidly resolve symptoms while remaining safe and well-tolerated. Areas covered: This review serves to summarize the literature regarding the use of bimekizumab for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Bimekizumab has undergone phase I and phase II clinical trials with results showing significant disease improvement or resolution, as well as safety and tolerability. Phase III studies are now actively enrolling. Expert opinion: Bimekizumab is a burgeoning biologic offering significant promise through its unique bispecific targeting of both IL-17A and IL-17F. Clinical trials have shown the potential of rapid symptom improvement after treatment with bimekizumab, with some patients seeing improvement after only two weeks. To date, bimekizumab has been shown to be safe and well-tolerated by patients, without any associated significant adverse events.