Opzelura for Hidradenitis Suppurativa: 4 Effective Treatment Options

Hidradenitis Suppurativa, commonly known as acne inversa, is a chronic and painful skin condition that affects about 1-4% of the global population, which is also prevalent in the Middle East. People with this condition experience inflamed and painful lesions in their armpits, groin, buttocks, and other body folds. The condition affects the quality of life of those who suffer from it and can cause complications like scarring, abscesses, and skin sinus tracts.

However, there is good news for those with the condition. Opzelura has been approved as an effective treatment option for moderate to severe Hidradenitis Suppurativa. This drug targets the root cause of the condition, reducing the number and severity of lesions, and improving the quality of life of those who suffer from it. In this article, we explore everything that you need to know about Opzelura for Hidradenitis Suppurativa.

How Does Opzelura Work?

Opzelura is a drug that targets and blocks the interleukin-17A (IL-17A) protein, which is responsible for causing inflammation in the lesions of Hidradenitis Suppurativa. By blocking the protein, Opzelura reduces inflammation, clears skin lesions, and improves the quality of life of those with the condition. Opzelura is administered as an injection once every two weeks and requires a prescription from a dermatologist.

The Effectiveness of Opzelura in Clinical Trials

The approval of Opzelura by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) was based on several successful clinical trials. The PIONEER I and PIONEER II trials evaluated the effectiveness of Opzelura in 259 and 326 patients, respectively. In both trials, Opzelura was found to be effective at reducing the number and severity of skin lesions, with PIONEER II showing a significant clinical benefit compared to a placebo. The clinical trials found that Opzelura was well-tolerated, with minimal side effects.

Who is Eligible for Opzelura Treatment?

Opzelura is a prescription-only medication, and only a dermatologist or a specialist trained in treating Hidradenitis Suppurativa can prescribe it. A dermatologist will determine if you are eligible for treatment with Opzelura based on your medical history, current medications, and the severity of your condition. Those with mild forms of the condition may not be eligible for Opzelura, and other treatment options may be recommended.

Potential Side Effects of Opzelura

As with all medications, Opzelura has some potential side effects that patients should be aware of. The most common side effects experienced by patients in the clinical trials were urinary tract infections, upper respiratory tract infections, injection site reactions, and headache. Patients may also experience more severe side effects like allergic reactions, so it is essential to consult your dermatologist if you experience any side effects after starting treatment with Opzelura.

Conclusion

Hidradenitis Suppurativa can be debilitating, and those with the condition need a reliable and effective treatment option that targets the root cause of the condition. Opzelura has been approved as an effective treatment option for moderate to severe Hidradenitis Suppurativa, and it offers hope for those who suffer from the condition. Speak to your dermatologist today to determine if Opzelura is a suitable treatment option for you.