Ustekinumab shows promise

Implications: Centocors new product- Ustekinumab /CNTO 1275 had impressive results in the recent PHOENIX trials and the application is under review at the FDA. The PASI score reductions are superior to the exiting agents such as Enbrel and Humira, and are comparable to those of the other Centocor product- Remicade which has to be given by infusion as opposed to subcutaneously. The subcutaneous method is preferred for patient convenience as an infusion requires a visit to the physicians' office. Also the adverse event rate was not high when compared to other biologic agents and the low drop out rate indicates that the serious adverse events were low.

Analysis:  When this product gets approved the other competitors- Enbrel from Amgen and Humira from Abbott will have stiff competition if the impressive results hold up in regular use, with minimal side effects such as infections, etc. The injection frequency of every 12 weeks is significant advantage over the weekly and twice monthly injections required by the other agents.