deucravacitinib

Deucravacitinib is an oral small-molecule inhibitor of TYK2 (tyrosine kinase 2), marketed as Sotyktu by Bristol Myers Squibb. It binds selectively to the TYK2 pseudokinase domain (JH2), blocking signaling of cytokines such as interleukin-12, interleukin-23, and type I interferons. This targeted approach aims to reduce inflammatory responses while avoiding broad inhibition of JAK1 and JAK2 pathways.

Indications include moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis in adults; regulatory agencies in various regions have also approved its use for active psoriatic arthritis in adults. The drug is taken as a once-daily oral tablet.

Adverse effects commonly reported in trials include nasopharyngitis, upper respiratory tract infection, headache, diarrhea, and nausea. Serious adverse events can occur, including infections and, less commonly, malignancies or cardiovascular events. Because TYK2 inhibition modulates immune function, patients should be monitored for signs of infection and other immune-related adverse effects. Use during pregnancy is not recommended, and contraception is advised during treatment.

Development and regulatory status: deucravacitinib (development code BMS-986165) was developed by Bristol Myers Squibb. It received FDA approval for plaque psoriasis in 2022, with subsequent regulatory activity for additional inflammatory conditions in other regions.