Methotrexate vs. Infliximab for Moderate-to-Severe Psoriasis

Multiple indicators demonstrated the superiority of infliximab.

Both the monoclonal antibody infliximab and the antimetabolite methotrexate have been used successfully to treat widespread psoriasis. A new phase IIIb, multicenter, open study compared the efficacy of infliximab (5 mg/kg infused at weeks 0, 2, 6, 14, and 22) and methotrexate (15 mg given orally once weekly). Dose escalation of methotrexate to 20 mg once weekly was allowed for limited response (<25% reduction of the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index [PASI] from baseline to week 6). The primary endpoint was 75% reduction of the PASI score from baseline (PASI 75) to week 16.

The study included 868 patients (age range, 18–70 years) with moderate-to-severe, generalized psoriasis of at least 6 months' duration. Patients who had previously receive…

Reviewing Author

Mark V. Dahl, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory board Ulthera, Inc.; AuBio LifeSciences, LLC; Paris Therapeutics

Equity Elorac, Inc.; Makucell, Inc.; Paris Therapeutics

Editorial boards UpToDate

Leadership positions in professional societiesNational Rosacea Society (Chairman, Medical Board)

Mark V. Dahl, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory board Ulthera, Inc.; AuBio LifeSciences, LLC; Paris Therapeutics

Equity Elorac, Inc.; Makucell, Inc.; Paris Therapeutics

Editorial boards UpToDate

Leadership positions in professional societiesNational Rosacea Society (Chairman, Medical Board)