Johnson & Johnson received FDA approval for Icotyde (icotrokinra), an IL-23 receptor blocker, for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.[1][2][3] The drug is intended for patients from 12 years of age with a weight of at least 40 kg, who are suitable for systemic treatment or phototherapy.[1][2][3] It is the first targeted oral peptide drug blocking the IL-23 receptor that provides complete resolution of skin manifestations.[1][3] The approval is based on data from the Phase 3 ICONIC program with four studies involving approximately 2,500 patients.[1][3][7] In the ICONIC-LEAD study, 65% of patients on Icotyde achieved clear or nearly clear skin (IGA 0/1) at week 16 compared to 8% on placebo.[1] In head-to-head studies, approximately 70% of patients achieved clear or nearly clear skin and 55% PASI 90 response at week 16.[3] The safety profile is favorable, with adverse reaction rates similar to placebo and no new safety signals through week 52.[3][4] J&J is also testing Icotide in psoriatic arthritis, ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease.[1][2]