Novartis receives CHMP backing for Cosentyx psoriasis approval

Novartis has announced that its new psoriasis therapy Cosentyx has been recommended for European approval by the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP).

The European Medicines Agency committee has adopted a positive opinion recommending Cosentyx as a first-line systemic treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis in adults who are candidates for this type of therapy.

At present, most other first-line systemic treatments have significant side effects, while biologic treatments for psoriasis – including anti-TNFs and ustekinumab – are recommended for second-line systemic therapy in Europe.

David Epstein, division head of Novartis Pharmaceuticals, said: "This positive CHMP opinion for secukinumab as a first-line treatment of psoriasis brings us one step closer to approval in Europe and making clear skin a reality for psoriasis patients."

Cosentyx is the brand name for secukinumab, formerly known as AIN457. It has proven its effectiveness in the treatment of psoriasis in phase III clinical trials.

The product also recently demonstrated its benefits as a therapy for psoriatic arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis in separate studies. Novartis will apply for additional approval of the drug in these indications next year.