Revolution in Psoriasis Treatment: First Pill of Its Kind Approved in Europe

The European Union has approved Icotyde, a first-of-its-kind pill for moderate to severe psoriasis, taken once daily. The drug, from Johnson & Johnson, blocks the receptor for the IL-23 protein. In phase 3 clinical trials involving approximately 2,500 patients, significant improvement was recorded within about four months. Common side effects: fungal infections in 1.1% of patients. The date of its arrival in Israel has not yet been published.

The European Union has approved Icotyde, a first-of-its-kind pill for treating moderate to severe psoriasis, taken once daily. The drug, developed by Johnson & Johnson, contains the active ingredient Icotrokinra and blocks the receptor for the IL-23 protein, which plays a central role in the inflammatory process. This is the first oral treatment approved in Europe that acts directly against this pathway, while previous treatments were given by injection. The decision followed four phase 3 clinical trials involving approximately 2,500 adults and adolescents aged 12 and older. The trials showed significant improvement in skin condition for a large portion of patients within about four months. The most common side effects were fungal infections, occurring in about 1.1% of patients. The drug does not cure the disease and is not suitable for all patients. As of September 23, 2026, no official launch date for the drug in Israel has been published, and it will need to undergo the registration process with the Ministry of Health.