Good news · Health & science · 26 October 2026
MHRA approves new tablet for plaque psoriasis
The MHRA has approved icotrokinra hydrochloride for treating moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. The medicine is for adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older who weigh at least 40 kg.
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency has granted authorisation for icotrokinra hydrochloride, marketed as Icotyde, to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. Julian Beach, Executive Director, Operations, said: "Today's authorisation provides another treatment option for patients living with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis."
Authorisation was granted on 23 October 2026 to Janssen-Cilag Limited. The decision relied on data from four Phase 3 clinical trials involving 2,500 people, including 72 adolescents aged 12 to under 18 years. Figures show the medicine was effective at week 16 compared with placebo. Patients will take the treatment as a 200mg tablet once a day.
The approval covers people aged 12 years and older who weigh at least 40 kg and are candidates for systemic therapy. The medicine works by blocking the IL-23 receptor, which is involved in inflammatory and immune responses. Summary of Product Characteristics and Patient Information leaflets are expected to be published within 7 days.
The MHRA stated that the safety of icotrokinra hydrochloride will continue to be closely monitored. Patients and healthcare professionals are encouraged to report any suspected side effects through the Yellow Card scheme. The announcement does not provide details on the specific cost of the medication or its immediate availability on the NHS.
Written by StreetOwl from MHRA’s own announcement. It was drafted by StreetOwl’s own model, every figure and quotation was checked by code against the announcement, and it was read and approved by Michael Rossi before it went up. It says what was announced, not what anyone should do about it.
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