At EULAR 2025, Johnson & Johnson shared Phase IIIb APEX data demonstrating Tremfya’s (guselkumab) ability to significantly reduce radiographic joint progression in psoriatic arthritis. Compared to placebo, patients receiving Tremfya had a 2.5-fold lower rate of joint damage at Week 24. Clinically, ACR50 was achieved in over 40% of patients, alongside improvements in skin symptoms. These results mark the first demonstration of structural joint benefit from an IL-23 inhibitor in PsA, expanding Tremfya’s differentiation beyond skin and joint symptom relief. Safety remained consistent with previous trials, without new concerns. The dual benefit of symptom improvement and disease-modifying action could strengthen Tremfya’s positioning as a preferred early-line biologic in PsA.

Citation: https://www.innovativemedicine.jnj.com/newsroom/immunology/new-data-show-tremfya-guselkumab-is-the-only-il-23-inhibitor-proven-to-significantly-inhibit-progression-of-joint-structural-damage-in-active-psoriatic-arthritis

Implication: Tremfya may become a more attractive first-line option due to its ability to modify joint damage progression.