A major investigation into the real-world effects of the JAK1 inhibitor abrocitinib, in a study called the "Abrocitinib CHinese rEgistry on AD" (AHEAD), made its international debut at the 83rd Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology held March 7-11 in Orlando, Florida, where over 20,000 experts gathered.

The study's interim results offer strong real-world evidence for the use of selective JAK1 inhibitors in treating atopic dermatitis (AD), underscoring China's rising influence in global dermatology research and clinical standards.

Results from the JAK1 Atopic Dermatitis Efficacy and Safety (JADE) trials were also presented at the conference, offering new insights into abrocitinib's efficacy, safety and long-term benefits. These studies advance precision medicine for AD, providing critical data to guide clinical decisions and optimize treatment strategies.

"We are thrilled to present the interim findings of AHEAD on the global stage," said professor Gao Xinghua, leading principal investigator of AHEAD and director of the Department of Dermatology at the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University. "As the largest real-world study of JAK1 inhibitors in AD to date, AHEAD aggregates invaluable clinical data from diverse regions across China, helping refine treatment approaches for Chinese AD patients."

He continued, "Complementing international Phase III clinical trial evidence, AHEAD provides additional real-world insights into the use of innovative therapies like abrocitinib in China. The release of these interim results not only offers guidance for standardized diagnosis and treatment in China but also introduces fresh perspectives for global AD treatment guidelines and personalized medicine."

Jean-Christophe Pointeau, president of Pfizer China and executive committee member of R&D-based Pharmaceutical Association Committee (RDPAC), underscored the significance of the findings: "The release of the AHEAD and JADE studies strengthen clinical decision-making in China with evidence-based data while amplifying the 'Voice of Chinese Science' in global practice."

Pointeau highlighted Pfizer as the first biopharmaceutical company to pioneer JAK pathway research for inflammatory diseases, with three decades of innovation in JAK inhibitors. He said Pfizer remains committed to advancing post-launch R&D, supporting dermatology development in China, and collaborating with Chinese dermatologists to enhance global scientific contributions for AD patients.

Led by Chinese experts, AHEAD marks a key milestone in China's transition from follower to leader in global dermatology research and AD treatment innovation. This large-scale, multicenter real-world study evaluates abrocitinib's use in Chinese patients with moderate-to-severe AD, including efficacy and treatment patterns. Interim data gathered from 314 patients across 40 Chinese centers confirm abrocitinib's real-world performance in China aligns with global Phase III trial results.

AD, a chronic inflammatory skin disease, is the leading non-fatal skin condition globally, severely impacting patients' physical and mental health. In China, AD cases have surged to over 70 million, posing a major public health challenge. The economic burden is significant, with direct medical costs consuming 12%-18% of household incomes, according to Pfizer China.

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