About 74 percent of people with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis achieved complete or near-complete skin clearance in a phase 3 trial of icotrokinra, a once-daily oral medication. In March 2026, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved icotrokinra (Icotyde) for moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults and children 12 and up.

Icotrokinra targets the interleukin 23 (IL-23) receptor to reduce inflammation, similar to several biologics used for psoriasis. However, unlike biologics that require injections, icotrokinra is taken as a pill.

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Clinical Trial Results

By week 16 of the late-stage trial, nearly two-thirds (64.7 percent) of participants had clear or almost clear skin, according to the Investigator’s Global Assessment. In comparison, only 8.3 percent of participants on placebo (inactive treatment) saw similar improvement.

Additionally, 49.6 percent of people taking icotrokinra reached PASI 90, which means their psoriasis improved by at least 90 percent. In the placebo group, 4.4 percent reached that level.

By week 24, results improved further, with 74.1 percent experiencing clear or nearly clear skin and 64.9 percent reaching PASI 90. The treatment was well tolerated, with no increased risk of side effects compared with placebo.

A Needle-Free Alternative to Injectables

Biologics that target interleukin pathways, such as IL-23, have proved effective in treating moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. One potential drawback is that they must be injected.

For people who want to avoid needles or can’t use injectable treatments, icotrokinra may be another option.

Talk to Your Doctor

If you have questions about icotrokinra, your dermatologist can help you understand potential benefits and side effects.

If you’re not happy with your current treatment, finding another option that better meets your goals may help improve your quality of life.

Find Your Team

On MyPsoriasisTeam, people share their experiences with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, get advice, and find support from others who understand.

Are you interested in needle-free treatment options for psoriasis? Let others know in the comments below.