Pfizer's Xeljanz barrels into psoriatic arthritis

The uptake of Pfizer's (NYSE: PFE) Xeljanz (tofacitinib) for the treatment of psoriatic arthritis (PsA) has been much more rapid than that of Eli Lilly's (NYSE: LLY) Taltz (ixekizumab), according to the most recent quarterly results of a study conducted by Spherix Global Insights with 101 US rheumatologists.

Though launched within weeks of each other, over half of the surveyed rheumatologists have already prescribed Pfizer's Xeljanz for the treatment of PsA, more than double the current users of Taltz. Furthermore, at approximately two months post-approval, Xeljanz had already captured 3% of the biologic/JAK PsA market, whereas Taltz only accounted for 1% of this population. While existing comfort and satisfaction with Xeljanz in rheumatoid arthritis is likely aiding swift PsA adoption, the main cited drivers behind use of the brand are the oral administration and perceived efficacy. Broad uptake of Xeljanz in PsA could be tempered by a lack of a psoriasis indication, something two-thirds of rheumatologists say is an important consideration when choosing a therapy for PsA.

Use of Taltz is largely driven by the brand's perceived efficacy, Interleukin (IL)-17 MOA, and patient severity, with rheumatologists noting the ideal patient will typically have severe skin involvement. And while the general newness of Taltz is the leading reason for current non-use, over one-third also note they are satisfied with other treatments. Indeed, one of Taltz's greatest hurdles will be distinguishing itself from in-class rival, Cosentyx (secukinumab), a brand with which rheumatologists are highly familiar and satisfied.