55% Remission Rate in Phase 3 AFFIRM Study Tightens Skyrizi’s Stand Against Tremfya
AbbVie’s Phase 3 AFFIRM study reported 55% of Crohn’s patients on risankizumab achieved clinical remission at week 12 versus 30% on placebo, and 44% showed endoscopic response versus 14% for placebo. These results could narrow Skyrizi’s convenience gap with J&J’s Tremfya and sustain a 75% frontline capture rate.
1. AFFIRM Study Results
AbbVie’s Phase 3 AFFIRM trial evaluated risankizumab in a predominantly treatment-refractory Crohn’s population, with 65% having failed two or more advanced therapies. The study showed 55% of patients achieved clinical remission at week 12 versus 30% on placebo and a 44% endoscopic response rate compared to 14% for placebo, demonstrating robust efficacy in a challenging cohort.
2. Strengthened Skyrizi Position
The strong remission and response metrics bolster Skyrizi’s competitive standing by highlighting its potential for a fully subcutaneous induction regimen. Management reports a stable 75% in-play capture rate in the frontline IBD setting, suggesting sustained adoption even under Tremfya’s dual subQ induction and maintenance protocol.
3. Challenges for Tremfya
Johnson & Johnson’s Tremfya may face increased pressure as Skyrizi narrows the convenience and efficacy gap, especially if AbbVie secures subcutaneous induction approval. This dynamic could force J&J to reconsider dosing schedules, pricing strategies or enhanced support programs to defend its share in the IL-23 inhibitor class.