MoonLake's SLK Shows Groundbreaking 40-Week Results in Severe Hidradenitis Suppurativa Trials

MoonLake Immunotherapeutics has released long-term results from its Phase 3 VELA trials for hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). The data, covering 40 weeks of treatment with SLK, show strong improvements in lesion control and patient quality of life. These findings will be presented at the 2026 American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Annual Meeting.

The condition itself has seen rising diagnoses in recent years, with nearly 6.2 million cases recorded across key regions in 2023 alone. The VELA-1 and VELA-2 trials assessed SLK in patients with moderate-to-severe HS. By Week 40, 62% of participants achieved a HiSCR75 response—meaning a 75% reduction in abscesses and inflammatory nodules. This surpasses the 40-60% response rates seen with other approved IL-17 inhibitors after one year. Additionally, 32% of patients reached complete clearance (HiSCR100), while 77% met the IHS-4 55 response threshold.

Pain and quality of life also improved significantly. Up to 43% of patients reported at least a three-point drop in worst skin pain scores. Meanwhile, 65% saw meaningful improvements in the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), with a minimum four-point gain from baseline. The HiSQOL severity score shifted dramatically: 63% of patients moved into the 'mild/none' category by Week 40, compared to 59% classified as 'very severe' at the start.

Safety data remained stable throughout the trials, with no new concerns identified. The findings come as HS diagnoses continue to climb, particularly in the US, Germany, and other major markets. In 2023, the US alone accounted for around 877,600 diagnosed cases, reflecting better awareness and detection of the condition. SLK's performance in the VELA trials sets a new benchmark for long-term HS management. The drug demonstrated superior lesion control, pain reduction, and quality-of-life benefits compared to existing treatments. With rising HS prevalence, these results could offer a much-needed advance for patients struggling with severe symptoms.