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How long does it take for Sotyktu to work?

Medically reviewed by Leigh Ann Anderson, PharmD. Last updated on Jan 18, 2023.

Official answer

by Drugs.com

The superior efficacy of Sotyktu for psoriasis compared to placebo and Otezla was demonstrated at 16 and 24 weeks. Studies have also shown Sotykto can have a meaningful effect to help clear plaque psoriasis, including scalp psoriasis, in 16 weeks.

In the pivotal phase 3 POETYK PSO 52-week clinical trials with 1,684 adult patients with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis, once-daily Sotyktu (deucravacitinib) 6 mg tablet showed superior effectiveness over a placebo (an inactive treatment) and twice-daily Otezla 30 mg (apremilast), another common oral psoriasis treatment, in improving skin clearance.

  • In studies submitted to the FDA for approval, 841 patients received Sotyktu, 421 received a placebo, and 422 received Otezla. Patients were evaluated at 16, 24, and 52 weeks after starting treatment.
  • In one study, 53% of people taking Sotyktu saw 75% clearer skin compared to 9% of those taking a placebo.
  • When compared to Otezla, 32% or 42% of people taking Sotyktu saw 90% clearer skin compared to 20% or 22%, of patients taking Otezla, respectively, after 24 weeks.
  • The effectiveness of Sotyktu compared to placebo and Otezla was seen at both 16 and 24 weeks in studies, respectively, and responses from Sotyktu lasted throughout one year.

Sotyktu has also been shown to clear scalp psoriasis in 16 weeks when compared to a placebo or Otezla.

  • In one clinical study, 70% of people taking Sotyktu had a clear or almost clear scalp at 16 weeks compared to 39% of people taking Otezla and 17% taking a placebo.
  • In another study, 60% of people taking Sotyktu had a clear or almost clear scalp at 16 weeks compared to 37% of people taking Otezla and 17% taking a placebo.

Sotyktu (deucravacitinib) is an oral prescription medication that is used to treat adults with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis in adults who may benefit from systemic therapy (medicine that works inside the body) or phototherapy (treatment with a specialized type of light).

How does it work (mechanism of action)?

Sotyktu is a kinase that works by blocking a protein in the immune system called TYK2 that can result in symptoms of psoriasis, such as redness and swelling on the skin. Blocking TYK2 may improve your psoriasis and lead to clearer skin or scalp. Symptoms of psoriasis include pain, redness, itching, stinging, burning, and skin tightness.

Sotyktu (deucravacitinib) is classified as a selective, allosteric tyrosine kinase 2 (TYK2) inhibitor. It was the first agent approved in this class.

Related Questions

How much is Sotyktu?

The price for a month’s supply of Sotkytu 6 mg (30 oral tablets) is about $6,500 if you are paying cash with a discount coupon, but most people do not pay this price. This price can vary based on your location, pharmacy and if you have insurance.

The Bristol-Myers Squibb’s Sotyktu 360 program may be able to help you to afford your medicine. Call 1-888-SOTYKTU (768-9588) Monday-Friday, 8 AM to 8 PM ET to learn more. If you're uninsured or underinsured, your Sotyktu Support Coordinator can help you understand what options may be available to you.

My insurance will not cover Sotyktu, how do I get it?

Contact Bristol-Myers Squibb at 1-888-SOTYKTU (768-9588) and ask to speak to an a Support Coordinator about the Sotyktu Bridge Program. This program may be able to provide you up to 3 years of Sotyktu free of charge while you await your decision from the commercial insurance carrier about your coverage.

Is there a Sotyktu copay card?

Yes, Bristol-Myers Squibb offers a copay card that can lower your cost for Sotyktu to as little as $0 per month, if you are eligible. You can sign up for the Copay Card online at Sotyktu.com or call 1-888-SOTYKTU (768-9588).

  • Eligible patients have private or commercial prescription drug insurance, are at least 18 years of age and are residents of the U.S.
  • Government-sponsored insurance plans such as Medicare, Medicaid or TriCare are not eligible for copay cards.

This is not all the information you need to know about Sotyktu (deucravacitinib) for safe and effective use and does not take the place of your doctor’s directions. Review the full product information and discuss any questions you have with your doctor or other health care provider.

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