FDA Approves First New Oral Psoriasis Drug in Years—No Injections Needed

A new oral treatment for moderate to severe plaque psoriasis is now available. The FDA approved deucravacitinib, sold under the brand name Sotyktu, in September 2022. This once-daily tablet offers an alternative to injections and office-based therapies for millions of patients.

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting around 7.5 million adults in the US. It causes scaling skin, itching, redness, and joint swelling. While there is no cure, systemic treatments help manage symptoms—but often come with serious side effects.

Deucravacitinib works as a 6-milligram tablet taken daily, with or without food. Clinical trials found it more effective than other oral medications at clearing plaques. It also showed fewer side effects, making it a promising option for those who qualify for phototherapy or systemic treatment.

However, the drug carries risks. It may interact with live vaccines and increase the chances of infections, cancer, or liver issues. Doctors advise caution for pregnant women and patients with liver disease or heart problems.

Deucravacitinib provides a new oral option for adults with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. Its approval follows years of limited alternatives, particularly for those seeking non-injectable treatments. Patients should discuss potential risks with their healthcare provider before starting the medication.