Merck's Tulisokibart Shines in Mid-Stage Study of Hidradenitis Suppurativa Treatment

Merck has reported positive results from a mid-stage study of its experimental drug, tulisokibart. The treatment achieved significant reductions in inflammatory skin lesions for patients with hidradenitis suppurativa, also known as acne inversa. In the study, 72% of patients receiving the highest dose of tulisokibart saw at least a 50% reduction in lesions after 16 weeks, compared to 35% of those on placebo.

The results are seen as a major breakthrough for Merck's push into immunology and could position tulisokibart as a potential new treatment option for the chronic skin disease. The company acquired the drug through its $10.8 billion purchase of Prometheus Biosciences in 2023.