Povorcitinib for Hidradenitis Suppurativa

(STOP-HS1 Trial)

This trial tests the effectiveness and safety of a new drug, Povorcitinib, for individuals with moderate to severe Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS), a skin condition causing painful lumps under the skin. Participants will receive one of two doses of Povorcitinib or a placebo (a dummy treatment) for 54 weeks. Eligibility requires having HS for at least three months, with at least five painful lumps in two different body areas, and a history of unsuccessful treatments. As a Phase 3 trial, this study represents the final step before FDA approval, offering participants a chance to help potentially bring a new treatment to market.

The trial requires that participants do not use topical and systemic antibiotics for treating Hidradenitis Suppurativa during the placebo-controlled period. It does not specify about other medications, so you may need to discuss your current medications with the trial team.

Research has shown that Povorcitinib is generally safe for people with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). Studies have found that Povorcitinib reduces symptoms like abscesses and nodules without causing more side effects than other treatments. In fact, different doses tested did not lead to increased negative side effects. This suggests that Povorcitinib is a safe choice for treating HS, as it works effectively without adding extra risks.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about povorcitinib for treating hidradenitis suppurativa because it works differently from current treatments. Most standard therapies, like antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs, aim to reduce symptoms but don't address the underlying causes. Povorcitinib is unique as it targets the JAK1 pathway, which plays a crucial role in inflammation. By directly intervening in this pathway, povorcitinib has the potential to reduce flare-ups more effectively and offer longer-lasting relief. This novel mechanism of action could represent a significant advancement in managing this chronic skin condition.

This trial will evaluate the effectiveness of Povorcitinib for treating hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). Participants may receive Povorcitinib at different dosages or a placebo. Studies have shown that Povorcitinib effectively treats HS, with patients experiencing fewer painful lumps, swollen areas, and leaking tunnels compared to those on a placebo. In another study, more patients on Povorcitinib showed significant improvement in their HS symptoms. The treatment blocks a specific protein that causes inflammation. Importantly, these studies found no increase in side effects, indicating that Povorcitinib appears safe as well as effective.¹²³⁵⁶