UCB's Bimzelx Gains Traction in Psoriatic Arthritis Market, Challenging Established Players

UCB's recently launched IL-17A/IL-17F inhibitor, Bimzelx, is making waves in the psoriatic arthritis (PsA) treatment landscape, according to a recent survey by Spherix Global Insights. The drug, which received FDA approval for active PsA in September 2024, is demonstrating strong physician awareness and favorable perceptions in its early launch phase.

Physician Awareness and Initial Uptake

Three months into its PsA launch, Bimzelx has achieved higher awareness levels among rheumatologists compared to competitors such as AbbVie's Rinvoq and Skyrizi, and Johnson & Johnson's Tremfya at similar points in their respective launches. The survey, which included 74 rheumatologists, revealed that half of the physicians had already trialed Bimzelx in PsA patients.

Despite the positive awareness metrics, UCB still faces challenges in translating this recognition into widespread adoption. Current uptake metrics, including prescriber base and average number of PsA patients initiated, are on par with or slightly behind benchmarked analogs. Notably, AbbVie's Rinvoq demonstrated the highest use at the three-month post-launch mark in PsA.

Competitive Landscape and Market Dynamics

Bimzelx's unique dual mechanism of action, targeting both IL-17A and IL-17F, has attracted physician interest and is driving patient switches from other systemic therapies. A significant portion of Bimzelx patients are transitioning from TNF inhibitors, with notable switches also occurring from Novartis' Cosentyx and Eli Lilly's Taltz, both of which target only IL-17A.

The broader PsA market is witnessing a shift in physician preferences, with IL-17 inhibitors gaining ground over TNF inhibitors for the first time. Cosentyx currently leads the IL-17 class, contributing to Novartis' 25% growth in sales for the drug last year.

Clinical Perceptions and Future Outlook

Rheumatologists with clinical experience of Bimzelx, Cosentyx, and Taltz reported that Bimzelx has an edge in terms of efficacy and data. One rheumatologist noted that Bimzelx "should work better than Cosentyx" based on its dual mechanism, although long-term clinical evidence is still pending.

As the PsA treatment landscape continues to evolve, UCB's Bimzelx appears poised to challenge established players. However, the company will need to focus on converting high awareness and positive perceptions into increased prescriptions to solidify its position in this competitive market.