AbbVie Advances Zumilokibart to Phase 3 Following Positive Eczema Data

The APEX Part B study enrolled 346 participants, testing three distinct dosing regimens against a placebo over a 16-week induction period. Researchers measured success primarily through the Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI-75), which tracks a 75% reduction in skin lesion severity. Data showed statistically significant improvements across all treatment arms compared to the control group, with higher doses delivering notable benefits in skin clearance and itch reduction.

Following these results, the company selected the mid-dose regimen for transition into Phase 3 development. Kori Wallace, AbbVie’s head of immunology clinical development, noted that the drug’s performance in rapidly addressing both skin inflammation and pruritus positions it as a potential long-term option for patients. Clinical investigators highlighted that the treatment's profile, including its extended half-life, could simplify management for those requiring chronic care. Common side effects reported during the trial included nasopharyngitis, headache, and noninfective conjunctivitis, consistent with the expected safety profile for this class of IL-13 inhibitors.