Icotrokinra (Icotyde)

What is Icotrokinra?

Icotrokinra (Icotyde) is an oral medication primarily used to treat moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. It is approved for adults and for certain adolescent patients who meet labeling criteria and are candidates for systemic therapy or phototherapy. As an oral option, it gives some patients an alternative to biologic injections or other systemic psoriasis treatments.

How does Icotrokinra work?

Icotrokinra works by blocking the IL-23 receptor. IL-23 is one of the key immune signals involved in the cycle of inflammation and abnormal skin-cell turnover seen in plaque psoriasis.

What are possible side effects of Icotrokinra?

Common side effects include headache, nausea, cough, fungal infections, and fatigue. Because it affects the immune system, treatment is generally avoided during clinically important active infections. Providers may also consider tuberculosis screening before treatment and recommend avoiding live vaccines during treatment.

How is Icotrokinra used?

Icotrokinra is typically taken by mouth once daily. It is typically taken upon waking on an empty stomach with water, and the tablet can also be dispersed in water for patients who have difficulty swallowing tablets. Your provider will review how to take it and whether it fits with your overall psoriasis treatment plan.

Before starting icotrokinra, your provider may review infection history, tuberculosis risk, kidney function, and vaccination status. Patients should let their healthcare team know if they develop signs of infection while taking the medication.