Switzerland-based Novartis' Cosentyx (secukinumab) has achieved its primary and key secondary endpoint in the Maximise study of psoriatic arthritis, it was reported yesterday.

The product is claimed to be the first and only fully-human biologic, which directly restricts interleukin-17A (IL-17A), a cornerstone cytokine engaged in the inflammation and development of PsA, psoriasis, and ankylosing spondylitis.

Maximise is a double-blind, randomised and placebo-controlled phase IIIb study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of an immunosuppressant in the management of axial manifestations of PsA.