Bermekimab Looks Promising for Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Bermekimab (XBiotech), a true human antibody targeting interleukin-1 alpha, appears to reduce both inflammatory lesions and pain in patients with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), according to results from a multicenter, open-label, confirmatory study.

This investigational treatment was evaluated in 42 HS patients, of which 24 had previously failed anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) therapy. Patients received 400mg subcutaneous weekly doses of bermekimab over a 12-week treatment period.

Results showed that among patients with no prior anti-TNF history (N=18), 61% achieved Hidradenitis Suppurativa Clinical Response (HiSCR), defined as at least a 50% reduction in the number of inflammatory lesions (abscesses + inflammatory nodules), as well as no increase in the number of abscesses or draining fistulas. Among those who failed prior anti-TNF therapy, 58% achieved HiSCR by week 12. Moreover, treatment with bermekimab led to a significant reduction in pain, which was assessed through a questionnaire.

“There is a substantial unmet medical need for patients suffering from HS, including lack of adequate treatment for pain, making these findings of utmost importance for patients and caregivers,” said John Simard, Chairman and CEO of XBiotech. “We further believe that our results in HS differentiate bermekimab from current treatments and look forward to delivering bermekimab as a new treatment option.”

For information visit XBiotech.com.