Lilly published the results of a Phase 3b clinical trial that showed treatment with concomitant Taltz (ixekizumab) and Zepbound (tirzepatide) was superior to ixekizumab alone in patients with active psoriatic arthritis (PsA). The findings were after 36 weeks of treatment. The TOGETHER-PsA study enrolled PsA patients who were obese or overweight with at least one weight-related condition. More than 30% of patients on the dual therapy achieved 50% improvement in PsA activity and weight reduction of at least 10%. TOGETHER-PsA is the first controlled study to evaluate an incretin therapy with a PsA biologic.
“While treatment guidelines for psoriatic arthritis recommend management of obesity, the reality is these two chronic diseases are often addressed separately and moving the needle in psoriatic arthritis has remained challenging” said Joseph F. Merola, MD, professor and chair, Department of Dermatology and professor of internal medicine in the Division of Rheumatic Diseases, UT Southwestern Medical Center, in a news release. "The observed benefit with treatment using Taltz and Zepbound appears to meaningfully impact psoriatic disease activity, indicating that for many patients, PsA is an obesity-related condition. This integrated therapy
approach represents a potential paradigm shift and could lead to better outcomes for those living with both diseases.
ADA and NYSSDDS Urge Medspa Disclosure
The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AADA) and the New York State Society of Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery (NYSSDDS) are urging lawmakers in New York to pass legislation requiring medical spas and related businesses to clearly disclose that they are not licensed to perform medical procedures. This comes after an investigation by the New York City
Council that found a range of violations among 15 inspected medspas. All 15 businesses offered medical procedures without licensure and oversight; 93% did not properly display licenses. Nearly three-quarters (73%) operated without any medical professional present to oversee medical procedures. As a result of the investigation, the New York State Department of State’s Bureau of Licensing Services initiated disciplinary proceedings against the inspected
businesses. In addition to more transparency and stronger oversight, the New York City Council, as well as the AADA and NYSSDDS, recommend a public education campaign to educate consumers on the dangers of seeking medical care in an unlicensed facility.
First-Ever Endowed Chair in Global Health Dermatology Appointed
Through a collaboration with CeraVe, Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) has the first-ever endowed chair in global health dermatology. Esther E. Freeman, MD, PhD, was appointed to the position of L'Oréal Dermatological Beauty/CeraVe Endowed Chair in Global Health Dermatology. For more than 20 years, Dr. Freeman has been working to improve healthcare access worldwide, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. She also performs epidemiological research in HIV, Mpox, COVID-19, cancer, infectious disease, and global health dermatology, and collaborates with the World Health Organization on skin disease guidelines, outbreaks, emerging infections, and policy.
“This support will be instrumental in expanding our reach, training more healthcare workers, and improving skin health outcomes for vulnerable populations around the world,” said Dr. Freeman, in a news release. “By investing in long-term mentorship, my goal is to help create a true ripple effect that will inspire sustainable care and empower the next generation of leaders in global health dermatology.”
