Humira Being Tested for Treating Psoriatic Arthritis

Abbott has begun a phase III clinical trial to evaluate whether its rheumatoid arthritis drug Humira (adalimumab) can also improve the symptoms of adults with moderate to severe psoriatic arthritis.

Psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune disorder in which a human protein, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), may play a role in the development of the disease. Humira works by blocking TNF-alpha.

Humira is already approved in the United States for the treatment of moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis. Approval in Europe is expected later this year.

Patients in the trial will receive either Humira or a placebo. Responses to the drug will be measured by improvements in signs and symptoms of the disease.

If left untreated, psoriatic arthritis can be a progressively disabling disease. Studies have shown that the condition affects as many as 30 percent of the people who have psoriasis.

Common symptoms include varying degrees of psoriasis activity along with stiffness, pain, swelling and tenderness of the joints that can lead to a reduced range of motion and potential severe joint destruction.

Abbott will also conduct a Phase II clinical trial that will assess the safety and efficacy of Humira in adult patients with moderate to severe psoriasis.

Other sources: Abbott Laboratories