Deucravacitinib (Sotyktu)

What is Deucravacitinib?

Deucravacitinib (Sotyktu) is an oral targeted medication used in dermatology primarily for moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. It is also an approved treatment option for active psoriatic arthritis in adults. It offers an oral option for patients who may want something beyond topical treatment (like topical steroids) and may prefer not to start with injections.

How does deucravacitinib work?

Deucravacitinib selectively targets TYK2, a signaling pathway involved in inflammatory disease. This is different from traditional JAK inhibition and is one reason it is often discussed separately from standard oral JAK inhibitors for eczema or alopecia.

By reducing TYK2-related inflammatory signaling, the medication can help decrease psoriasis activity over time.

What are possible side effects of Deucravacitinib?

Possible side effects can include:

  • Upper respiratory symptoms

  • Headache

  • Acne or folliculitis in some patients

  • Lab changes in selected situations

The need for baseline review or follow-up monitoring depends on the patient and the overall treatment plan.

How is Deucravacitinib used?

Deucravacitinib is taken by mouth on a schedule directed by your provider. It may be considered for patients with plaque psoriasis or active psoriatic arthritis when topical treatment alone is not enough or when an oral targeted option is preferred.

Response varies from person to person, and improvement often builds over time rather than immediately.

THIS CONTENT IS INTENDED SOLELY FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES AND MAY NOT BE COMPREHENSIVE. IT DOES NOT CONSTITUTE MEDICAL ADVICE. PLEASE REFER TO OUR TERMS OF USE FOR FURTHER DETAILS. ALWAYS CONSULT WITH YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER BEFORE MAKING ANY MEDICAL DECISIONS.