Pfizer published positive phase III results for tofacitinib

Pfizer has announced positive results from a phase three trial of its tofacitinib treatment, which has been designed to treat psoriasis.

The drug is set to be the first of a new class of oral Janus kinase inhibitors, the safety and efficacy of which are being assessed for use in adults with moderate-to-severe chronic plaque psoriasis.

A five-stage oral treatment psoriasis trial (OPT) program has been launched and initial results showed a ten mg twice-daily tofacitinib dosage proved non-inferior to the currently-available Enbrel intravenous treatment, which is delivered in two 50 mg doses per week.

The results of this stage of the 12-week OPT Compare study were presented at the Latest in Dermatology Research Symposium at the annual American Academy of Dermatology meeting in Denver, Colorado.

Lead author Herve Bachelez said: "We are pleased to present the detailed results of OPT Compare, the first phase III trial showing non-inferiority of an oral small molecule, tofacitinib, versus an injected biologic agent, Enbrel, in psoriasis."

Results from the study will form the basis of Pfizer's applications for regulatory approval for the treatment.