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China just approved Johnson & Johnson's oral psoriasis drug, Icotrokinra, for moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis — shaking up a market of over 8.4 million patients. Analysts see blockbuster potential as the once-daily pill could pull patients away from injectable rivals like AbbVie's Skyrizi and BMS's Sotyktu. The approval heats up competition in the world's second-largest pharma market.
China's drug regulator has given the green light to Johnson & Johnson's oral psoriasis treatment, Icotrokinra, for moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis — marking a significant entry into one of the world's most competitive pharmaceutical markets. The approval puts J&J in direct competition with Bristol Myers Squibb's Sotyktu and AbbVie's Skyrizi, both already established in China.
Wall Street analysts have dubbed Icotrokinra a potential "blockbuster," citing its safety profile and once-daily oral dosing as key advantages over injectable biologics that currently dominate the psoriasis treatment landscape. The drug's convenience factor could be a major draw for patients and physicians alike.
By the Numbers:
Why it matters: Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition with a massive patient population in China, and the shift from injectables to oral therapies could dramatically change treatment uptake. If Icotrokinra captures meaningful market share, it could redefine the standard of care — not just in China, but globally.