Ryan Livingston joined the MJH Life Sciences team in March of 2025, shortly after graduating from TCNJ with a bachelor’s degree in English. He enjoys creative writing, reading, and scuba diving. He can be reached at rlivingston@mjhlifesciences.com.

 has seen a series of dramatic shifts during the past year. Between the groundbreaking joint statement from the Heart Failure Society of America (HFSA) and the American Society for Preventive Cardiology (ASPC) calling for a shift towards preventive care in HF to the 

's approval of bumetanide nasal spray and finerenone, a substantial amount of progress has been made in improving the efficacy and availability of HF care.

Given the sheer volume of critical news released during 2025, the editorial team at 

 has collected 12 of the most impactful headlines from the past 12 months. Catch up on any major news you might have missed below.


FDA Updates Mavacamten Label in Obstructive Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

On April 17, 2025, the FDA updated mavacamten’s prescribing information for treating adults with New York Heart Association (NYHA) Class II-III 

obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (oHCM)

, aiming to simplify echo monitoring requirements for eligible patients in the maintenance phase. This decision reduced the frequency of required echo monitoring from once every 12 weeks to once every 6 months for patients with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≥55% and a Valsalva LVOT gradient ≤30 mmHg who reached the maintenance phase at 12 weeks or later. The decision also expanded patient eligibility by reducing contraindications, such as those with moderate CYP2C19 inhibitors and strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.


FDA Approves Finerenone (Kerendia) for Heart Failure with Ejection Fraction of 40% or More

On July 14, 2025, the FDA approved finerenone for reducing the risk of cardiovascular death, hospitalization for HF, and urgent HF visits in adults with HF with mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFmrEF) and preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). This approval was based on results from the FINEARTS-HF trial, which saw finerenone substantially reduce the incidence of the above endpoints by 16% compared to placebo.

FDA Approves Aficamten (Myqorzo) for Symptomatic Obstructive Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy


On December 19, 2025, the FDA announced its approval of aficamten tablets in 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, and 20 mg doses to treat oHCM, aiming to improve functional capacity and symptoms. The allosteric and reversible inhibitor of cardiac myosin motor activity proved its safety and efficacy in the phase 3 SEQUOIA-HCM trial, which compared its impact on exercise capacity versus placebo. 

FDA Approves Bumetanide Nasal Spray for Edema with Congestive Heart Failure

On September 15, 2025, Corstasis Therapeutics announced the FDA’s approval of bumetanide nasal spray to treat edema associated with congestive heart failure (CHF), liver disease, and chronic kidney disease (CKD). This intranasal loop diuretic is designed to circumvent the absorption presented by overreliance on intravenous loop diuretics. During the RSQ-777-02 trial, the nasal spray proved its equivalence to oral bumetanide, as well as displaying a higher time to maximum concentration compared to oral administration.


HFSA and ASPC Release Statement on Shifting to Prevention in Heart Failure


On August 13, 2025, the HFSA and ASPC released a joint statement addressing the need for the prioritization of prevention and risk identification in HF care. The document calls for clinicians to take a more active role in identifying risk factors in patients, noting major drivers of the pathophysiologic cascade, such as inflammation. Additionally, the publication names a series of preventive factors for lifelong HF control, such as improved sleep, regular exercise, weight management, and control of blood pressure, cholesterol, and glycemia. Ultimately, the document breaks down 4 primary components of HF prevention: early risk identification, holistic care, proven therapies, and system-wide change.


Finerenone Limits Outpatient Oral Diuretic Intensification in Heart Failure


A secondary analysis of the FINEARTS-HF trial proved in February of 2025 that finerenone has the capacity to prevent outpatient worsening HF events requiring oral diuretic intensification in patients with mildly reduced or preserved ejection fraction. In addition to further indicating the benefit of finerenone in decreasing worsening HF events, the trial was also cited as a major argument in favor of adopting outpatient oral diuretic intensification as an indicator of worsening HF.


DAPA-EAT: Dapaglifozin Reduces Epicardial Adipose Tissue in Patients with Asymptomatic HF

DAPA-EAT was presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions in New Orleans, Louisiana, highlighting dapagliflozin’s substantial efficacy in reducing epicardial adipose tissue (EAT), left ventricular myocardial fibrosis and volume, and improved diastolic filling dynamics in patients with asymptomatic HF. During the trial, dapagliflozin reduced EAT by 15.6 mL compared to the control cohort’s 9.6 mL reduction. However, most echocardiographic parameters showed no significant differences, with no changes observed in the biomarkers of the E/A ratio.


SURPASS-CVOT: Tirzepatide Bests Dulaglutide for Cardiovascular Protection


On July 31, 2025, Eli Lilly and Company announced positive topline results from the head-to-head phase 3 SURPASS-CVOT trial, which compared tirzepatide and dulaglutide in adults with 

. During the trial, tirzepatide demonstrated a non-inferior rate of major adverse cardiovascular events, including cardiovascular death, heart attack, and stroke, compared to dulaglutide. Additionally, although the trial was not controlled for multiplicity-adjusted type-1 error, tirzepatide also resulted in improvements on measures of A1C, weight, renal function, and all-cause mortality.


HFSA/ASPC Heart Failure Prevention: From Prognosis to Prevention in Heart Failure


Following the joint statement from the ASPC and HFSA, 

 hosted a 7-part special report to break down the new framework and its establishment of HF as a preventable condition. In this first episode, moderator James Januzzi, MD, is joined by Martha Gulati, MD, MS, and Anu Lala, MD, to highlight the need to bridge the gap between HF care and preventive cardiology. Despite remaining largely preventable, HF is a rapidly growing epidemic with high costs to both clinicians and patients. Preventive cardiology and HF care have traditionally been separate, but Gulati and Lala emphasize the importance of unifying the 2 fields via the new statement.


Don't Miss a Beat: Vericiguat in Heart Failure and the VICTOR Trial, With Javed Butler, MD


Although the VICTOR trial, which investigated vericiguat in patients with ambulatory HFrEF who had received contemporary background therapy, failed to achieve its primary endpoint, it did display fewer cardiovascular and all-cause deaths. Given this, investigators have suggested vericiguat may prove beneficial in ambulatory HFrEF when combined with optimal background therapy. To further discuss this, cohosts Stephen Greene, MD, and Muthiah Vaduganathan, MD, MPH, spoke with Javed Butler, MD, to discuss vericiguat’s potential as a mortality-reducing therapy in HFrEF and its possible place in an emerging “quintuple therapy” standard.


Don't Miss a Beat: Debating Oral Diuretic Intensification as an Endpoint in Heart Failure Trials


This episode centered around the ongoing debate for establishing oral diuretic intensification, particularly in light of its frequency and prognostic value, as an endpoint for future HF trials. Additionally, in comparison to historical endpoints, including all-cause mortality and HF hospitalization, oral diuretic intensification may potentially increase event capture in future clinical trials. However, definitions of oral diuretic intensification vary across studies, ranging from dose doubling to drug class switching and short-term use of additional diuretics. Still, the prognostic importance of this measurement makes it worth considering, even with the required overhauls to both definition and trial frameworks prior to its implementation.


Don't Miss a Beat: POLY-HF & the Potential of Polypills in HF, With Ambarish Pandey, MD

In this episode, recorded onsite at the 2025 American Heart Association Scientific Sessions in New Orleans, saw Greene and Vaduganathan meet with Ambarish Pandey, MD, from UT Southwestern, to discuss the POLY-HF trial – specifically, the novel concept of a polypill approach to HFrEF. The trial tested a singular pill including 3 GDMT classes – metoprolol succinate, spironolactone, and empagliflozin – in the enhancement of treating adherence and cardiac function compared to usual care. Patients receiving the polypill demonstrated a 3.4% greater improvement in LVEF, as well as a 50% reduction in recurrent HF hospitalizations.

Articles

Heart failure management has evolved significantly, with a focus on preventive care and new FDA approvals. Key developments include the FDA's approval of finerenone for heart failure with mildly reduced or preserved ejection fraction, and bumetanide nasal spray for edema in congestive heart failure. The HFSA and ASPC emphasize prevention, highlighting risk identification and lifestyle factors. Trials like FINEARTS-HF and DAPA-EAT demonstrate the efficacy of finerenone and dapagliflozin, respectively. The SURPASS-CVOT trial shows tirzepatide's cardiovascular benefits. Discussions on vericiguat and polypills highlight potential advancements in heart failure treatment.

Catch up on the most impactful headlines in HF from all of 2025 with our Year in Review.

News

news page, resources on the topics of disease- and specialty-specific medical news and expert insight can be found. Content includes articles, interviews, videos, podcasts, and breaking news on health care research, treatment, and drug development.

Clinical

clinical page is a resource for content on every specialty, disease, and topic available on our medical news site.

Cardiology

Cardiology condition center page is a comprehensive resource for clinical news and insights on cardiovascular and cardiometabolic diseases. This page consists of interviews, articles, podcasts, and videos on the research, treatment and development of therapies for heart disease and cardiovascular events, as well as associated diabetes, renal failure, and more...

Heart Failure

The HCPLive heart failure page is a resource for medical news and expert insights on HF. This page features expert-led coverage, articles, videos and research on the therapies and development of treatments for heart disease, reduced and preserved ejection fraction, and more.

FDA News

Heart Failure in 2025: Year in Review

Victoria Johnson joined the MJH Life Sciences in 2020 and has written for NeurologyLive, CGTLive, and now HCPLive. You can reach her at vjohnson@mjhlifesciences.com

2025 marked a year of meaningful expansion and maturation in psoriatic arthritis (PsA) care, as advances in immunology translated into broader treatment options, earlier intervention strategies, and clearer regulatory momentum. The field continued to move beyond symptom control alone, with growing emphasis on disease modification, functional outcomes, and addressing long-standing gaps in diagnosis and access—particularly for younger patients and those with prior treatment failure.

Regulatory developments underscored this progress, highlighted by the FDA approval of guselkumab for pediatric plaque psoriasis and PsA, extending IL-23 inhibition into younger populations for the first time. At the same time, oral targeted therapies gained traction, with deucravacitinib advancing toward FDA review following strong phase 3 data demonstrating improvements across joint, skin, and radiographic outcomes. Together, these milestones signaled a broadening PsA armamentarium that spans age groups, mechanisms of action, and routes of administration.

Clinically, 2025 delivered a wave of pivotal and late-stage data reinforcing both established and emerging pathways. IL-23 inhibition continued to solidify its role with positive phase 3 tildrakizumab trials, while TYK2 inhibition emerged as a major theme through encouraging results from deucravacitinib and zasocitinib. Head-to-head evidence favoring secukinumab in post-TNFi disease and early promise from next-generation agents like the IL-17A/IL-17F nanobody sonelokimab further defined treatment sequencing. These advances, combined with expert discussions emphasizing the urgency of coordinated dermatology–rheumatology care, framed 2025 as a year that not only advanced PsA therapeutics, but also sharpened the clinical strategy around using them.

FDA Approves Guselkumab (Tremfya) for Pediatric Plaque Psoriasis, Psoriatic Arthritis

On September 29, 2025, the FDA approved guselkumab (Tremfya) for children aged ≥6 years and weighing ≥40 kg with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis or active psoriatic arthritis, making it the first IL-23 inhibitor approved for these pediatric indications. The decision was supported by the phase 3 PROTOSTAR trial, where guselkumab significantly improved skin clearance compared with placebo, and by extrapolated data from adult PsO and PsA studies. This expands guselkumab’s use beyond its prior adult approvals and provides a new treatment option for children with these immune-mediated diseases.

TYK2 Inhibitor Deucravacitinib up for FDA Review for Psoriatic Arthritis

The FDA accepted Bristol Myers Squibb’s sNDA for deucravacitinib in active psoriatic arthritis with a PDUFA date of March 6, 2026, based on phase 3 POETYK PsA trials showing 54.2% of patients achieved ACR20 at week 16 versus 34.1% with placebo (

 <.0001). The TYK2 inhibitor also significantly improved PASI 75 response, physical function, fatigue, and radiographic progression, with no new safety signals and a low rate of serious adverse events.

Pivotal Tildrakizumab Trials Meet Endpoint for Psoriatic Arthritis

Tildrakizumab 100 mg met its primary endpoint in both INSPIRE-1 and INSPIRE-2 phase 3 trials by significantly improving ACR20 response rates at week 24 versus placebo (

 <.05) in patients with active psoriatic arthritis. The IL-23 inhibitor also showed improvements in ACR50, ACR70, and PASI75 with a safety profile consistent with previous psoriasis trials, reinforcing its potential as a PsA treatment option.

Phase 3 Deucravacitinib Trial Meets ACR20 End Point in PsA

The phase 3 POETYK PsA-1 trial demonstrated that deucravacitinib significantly improved joint and skin symptoms in adults with active psoriatic arthritis, meeting its primary endpoint with 54.2% of treated patients achieving ACR20 response at week 16 versus 34.1% on placebo. Key secondary endpoints were also met, including significant improvements in skin clearance, physical function, and quality of life measures, alongside evidence of inhibited radiographic progression. The safety profile of deucravacitinib was consistent with previous studies, with no new safety signals identified, supporting its potential as an oral, first-in-class TYK2 inhibitor for psoriatic arthritis management.

Zasocitinib Data Demonstrates Efficacy of TYK2 Inhibition for Psoriatic Arthritis

In a phase 2b trial, zasocitinib 30 mg and 15 mg significantly improved ACR20 responses at week 12 in patients with active psoriatic arthritis (54.2% and 53.3%, respectively, vs. 29.2% with placebo; 

 = .002), with additional numeric gains seen in ACR50, ACR70, PASI 75, and MDA rates. The drug’s safety profile remained manageable with no new safety signals, supporting TYK2 inhibition as a promising, targeted, and potentially safer oral treatment pathway for PsA; phase 3 trials are currently underway.

AgAIN: Secukinumab Outperforms Ustekinumab in Post-TNFi Psoriatic Arthritis, With Frank Behrens, MD

Secukinumab demonstrated superior efficacy to ustekinumab in TNFi-experienced patients with psoriatic arthritis in the phase 3b AgAIN trial. At week 28, 57.1% of patients receiving secukinumab achieved HAQ-DI response versus 27.0% with ustekinumab (

 = .002), with greater improvements across joint, skin, and pain outcomes, and fewer discontinuations due to loss of efficacy.

Sonelokimab Demonstrates Psoriatic Arthritis Improvements Over Placebo

Sonelokimab met its primary endpoint in a phase 2 trial, significantly improving psoriatic arthritis signs and symptoms with higher ACR50 response rates at week 12 versus placebo. As a dual IL-17A/IL-17F–targeting nanobody, the therapy demonstrated robust joint and skin efficacy with a favorable safety profile, supporting its continued evaluation in ongoing phase 3 PsA studies.

Closing the Gap: Collaborating Care to Improve Outcomes in Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis

Experts are calling for earlier, more coordinated detection of psoriatic arthritis, which develops in up to 30% of patients with psoriasis and is often diagnosed years too late. In this 

 feature, leading dermatology and rheumatology voices discuss how routine screening, shared treatment strategies, and cross-specialty collaboration can help close diagnostic gaps and prevent irreversible joint damage.

1. Brooks A. FDA Approves Guselkumab (Tremfya) for Pediatric Plaque Psoriasis, Psoriatic Arthritis. Article. HCPLive. September 29, 2025. https://www.hcplive.com/view/fda-approves-guselkumab-tremfya-for-pediatric-plaque-psoriasis-psoriatic-arthritis

2. Johnson V. TYK2 Inhibitor Deucravacitinib up for FDA Review for Psoriatic Arthritis. Article. HCPLive. July 21, 2025. https://www.hcplive.com/view/tyk2-inhibitor-deucravacitinib-up-for-fda-review-for-psoriatic-arthritis

3. Johnson V. Pivotal Tildrakizumab Trials Meet Endpoint for Psoriatic Arthritis. Article. HCPLive. July 25, 2025. https://www.hcplive.com/view/pivotal-tildrakizumab-trials-meet-endpoint-for-psoriatic-arthritis

4. Johnson V. Phase 3 Deucravacitinib Trial Meets ACR20 End Point in PsA. Article. HCPLive. June 11, 2025. https://www.hcplive.com/view/phase-3-deucravacitinib-trial-meets-acr20-end-point-in-psa

5. Johnson V. Zasocitinib Data Demonstrates Efficacy of TYK2 Inhibition for Psoriatic Arthritis. Article. HCPLive. July 16, 2025. https://www.hcplive.com/view/zasocitinib-data-demonstrates-efficacy-of-tyk2-inhibition-for-psoriatic-arthritis

6. Behrens F. AgAIN: Secukinumab Outperforms Ustekinumab in Post-TNFi Psoriatic Arthritis, With Frank Behrens, MD. Video. HCPLive. October 28, 2025. https://www.hcplive.com/view/again-secukinumab-outperforms-ustekinumab-post-tnfi-psoriatic-arthritis-behrens

7. Johnson V. Sonelokimab Demonstrates Psoriatic Arthritis Improvements Over Placebo. Article. HCPLive. October 10, 2025. https://www.hcplive.com/view/sonelokimab-demonstrates-psoriatic-arthritis-improvements-over-placebo

8. Johnson V, Smith T. Closing the Gap: Collaborating Care to Improve Outcomes in Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis. Article. HCPLive. August 25, 2025. https://www.hcplive.com/view/closing-gap-collaborating-care-improve-outcomes-psoriasis-psa

In 2025, psoriatic arthritis (PsA) care saw significant advancements, with new treatment options and strategies emerging from immunological research. Regulatory progress included the FDA's approval of guselkumab for pediatric use and the advancement of oral therapies like deucravacitinib. Clinical trials reinforced the efficacy of IL-23 and TYK2 inhibitors, with promising results from tildrakizumab, deucravacitinib, and zasocitinib. Secukinumab showed superiority in post-TNFi PsA, while sonelokimab demonstrated potential in early trials. Experts emphasized the importance of coordinated dermatology-rheumatology care to improve diagnosis and treatment outcomes.

The asthma year in review highlights FDA approvals, data, and advances in 2025.

Psoriatic Arthritis

On the HCPLive psoriatic arthritis page, resources on the topics of medical news and expert insight into PsA can be found. Content includes articles, interviews, videos, podcasts, and breaking news on arthritis, and more.

Rheumatology

Rheumatology condition center page is a comprehensive resource for clinical news and insights on rheumatologic disease. This page consists of interviews, articles, podcasts, and videos on the research, treatment and development of therapies for arthritis, gout, nr-AxSpA, and more.

Psoriatic Arthritis in 2025: Year in Review

Alex Hillenbrand is an assistant editor for 

. She earned her BA in English from Lafayette College in 2023 and went on to write for pop culture, entertainment, and sports media outlets before joining MJH Life Sciences in 2025. In her free time, Alex enjoys cooking, going on walks, and meeting new people. Contact her at mjhlifesciences.com.

 underwent rapid and consequential changes, signaling newfound opportunity and choice for clinicians in the once-limited treatment landscape.

These developments were marked by multiple 

approvals, pivotal phase 3 readouts, and an updated 2025 Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) IgAN guideline. The FDA granted accelerated approval to sibeprenlimab (Voyxact) based on proteinuria reduction in the phase 3 VISIONARY trial, approved atrasentan (Vanrafia) as the first selective endothelin A receptor antagonist for IgAN, and updated the Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) requirements for sparsentan (Filspari), reducing liver monitoring frequency and removing embryo-fetal toxicity monitoring.

At the same time, late-stage clinical trials, including APPLAUSE-IgAN evaluating iptacopan (Fabhalta), phase 3 studies of telitacicept, and emerging data for povetacicept and mezagitamab, provided growing evidence of targeted complement inhibition and B-cell modulation slowing disease progression and reducing proteinuria.

These developments, alongside the release of the international clinical guidance, collectively signal a shift toward earlier, mechanism-driven intervention. 

FDA Approves REMS Label Update for Sparsentan (Filspari) in IgA Nephropathy

On August 27, 2025, Travere Therapeutics announced FDA approval of an updated REMS labeling for sparsentan (Filspari) in IgAN. The update reduces liver function monitoring from monthly to every 3 months and removes embryo-fetal toxicity monitoring, based on safety data from post-marketing surveillance and the phase 3 PROTECT, phase 3 DUPLEX, and phase 2 DUET trials. Less intensive monitoring may improve patient adherence and broaden the practical use of sparsentan in IgAN management.

FDA Awards Accelerated Approval to Sibeprenlimab in IgA Nephropathy

On November 25, 2025, the FDA approved sibeprenlimab (Voyxact), a targeted APRIL inhibitor from Otsuka Pharmaceutical, for reducing proteinuria in adults with primary IgAN at risk for disease progression. Approval was based on results from the VISIONARY trial, the largest phase 3 IgAN study to date, which demonstrated a 54.3% placebo-adjusted reduction in 24-hour urine protein-to-creatinine ratio (UPCR) after 12 months. Sibeprenlimab provides a first-in-class option targeting APRIL, signaling the emergence of mechanism-based therapies beyond conventional supportive care.

Atrasentan (Vanrafia) Receives Accelerated Approval in IgA Nephropathy

On April 2, 2025, the FDA approved atrasentan, a once-daily, non-steroidal oral endothelin A receptor antagonist, for reducing proteinuria in adults at risk of rapid progression. The approval confirms proteinuria as a regulatory-accepted surrogate endpoint and expands nephrology’s antiproteinuric toolkit.

Progress in IgAN and Future Innovations in Nephrology, with Richard Lafayette, MD

Finerenone Shows Promise in IgAN: Reduced Proteinuria, Stable Kidney Function

Finerenone treatment in patients with IgAN on standard supportive care reduced protein-to-creatinine ratio and maintained stable estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) over 6 months, with a 25% relative reduction in urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) versus placebo.

These results suggest finerenone may provide kidney protection and reduce cardiovascular risk, expanding its potential role in managing patients with proteinuric kidney disease.

Povetacicept Data Validate APRIL/BAFF Inhibition in IgAN and pMN, With James Tumlin, MD

In the phase 1/2 RUBY-3 trial, povetacicept led to sustained reductions in UPCR, galactose-deficient IgA1 (Gd-IgA1), and hematuria, while maintaining stable eGFR in patients with IgAN and primary membranous nephropathy (pMN). James Tumlin, MD, highlighted that these upstream immunologic effects translate into meaningful proteinuria reductions. Povetacicept reinforces the potential of B-cell–modulating therapies to achieve disease-modifying outcomes in IgAN.

APPLAUSE-IgAN: Iptacopan (Fabhalta) Meets eGFR Decline Primary Endpoint

The phase 3 APPLAUSE-IgAN trial demonstrated that iptacopan, an oral alternative complement pathway inhibitor, significantly slowed IgAN progression, measured by the annualized total slope of eGFR decline over 2 years. Novartis plans to use these data for regulatory submissions in 2026. Iptacopan offers a potential oral complement-targeted therapy that could reduce the burden of progressive kidney loss in IgAN.

Mezagitamab Shows Promise for IgA Nephropathy in Phase 1b Trial, with Jonathan Barratt, MD, PhD

Interim data from a phase 1b trial led by Jonathan Barratt, MD, PhD, suggest mezagitamab, a CD38-targeting monoclonal antibody, achieved meaningful biological and clinical responses with no Grade 3 or higher infections when added to standard care. Early results indicate CD38-targeted therapy may provide a novel immunomodulatory approach for IgAN management.

Telitacicept Achieves Primary Endpoint in IgA Nephropathy Phase 3 Study

RemeGen’s telitacicept, a fusion protein targeting B-lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS) and APRIL, demonstrated efficacy and a favorable safety profile over 39 weeks, reducing UPCR and affecting immunoglobulin levels in high-risk IgAN patients. Telitacicept strengthens the pipeline of B-cell–modulating therapies with the potential to alter disease course in IgAN.

KDIGO Releases Updated IgA Nephropathy, IgA Vasculitis Clinical Practice Guideline

The 2025 KDIGO Clinical Practice Guideline, co-chaired by Jürgen Floege, MD, and Brad Rovin, MD, emphasizes early initiation of therapies targeting both IgA-containing immune complex formation and downstream nephron injury. Guidelines reinforce a precision-based approach, encouraging use of targeted therapies in early disease to prevent irreversible kidney damage.

Kidney Compass: Key Updates in IgA Nephropathy at ERA 2025, with Chee Kay Cheung, MBChB, PhD

, HCPLive’s nephrology podcast hosted by Brendon Neuen, MBBS, PhD, and Shikha Wadhwani, MD, MS, covered pivotal advances in kidney care throughout 2025.

In this special edition of Kidney Compass, Wadhwani, MD, sits down with Chee Kay Cheung, MBChB, PhD, of the University of Leicester, at the 62nd European Renal Association (ERA 2025) Congress to discuss the evolving treatment landscape of IgAN, including the rise of B-cell modulating therapies targeting APRIL and BAFF.

Kidney Compass: Atacicept and ORIGIN 3 at Kidney Week 2025, with Richard Lafayette, MD

In this featured episode of Kidney Compass at the 

 Kidney Week 2025, our hosts sat down with Richard Lafayette, MD, a rheumatologist at Stanford Health Care. They reviewed ORIGIN-3 trial results evaluating atacicept, a dual BAFF/APRIL inhibitor, highlighting its potential to reduce pathogenic IgA1 production and proteinuria in IgAN. Atacicept reinforces the mechanistic approach to IgAN, supporting its integration into precision therapy strategies. 

PREVAIL: Felzartamab’s Sustained Clinical Outcomes In IgAN, With Jurgen Floege, MD

In this featured interview from ASN 2025, Jürgen Floege, MD, discussed data from the IGNAZ phase 2 and ongoing PREVAIL phase 3 trials investigating felzartamab, an anti-CD38 agent, which showed durable plasma cell depletion, sustained suppression of IgA, and reduced proteinuria. Felzartamab demonstrates the long-term potential of CD38-targeted therapy to modify the disease course in IgAN.

Shaping the Next Era of IgA Nephropathy Treatment, With Brendon Neuen, MBBS, PhD

Brendon Neuen and a team of investigators evaluated multiple new therapies, iptacopan (Fabhalta), sparsentan (Filspari), atrasentan (Vanrafia), and budesonide (Tarpeyo), considering critical questions about how to best use these treatments in practice.

In a recent systematic review and meta-analysis of pooled phase 2 and phase 3 trial data for nonimmunosuppressive antiproteinuric therapies, corticosteroids, B-cell modulating agents, and complement inhibitors were examined. They found that all 4 therapeutic classes reduce proteinuria, but to varying degrees. Comparative insights help guide the selection of personalized therapy based on mechanism, efficacy, and patient-specific factors.

Factor D Inhibition Lacks Efficacy For IgAN in Phase 2 ALXN2050 Trial, With Sayna Norouzi, MD

Sayna Norouzi, MD, reported that ALXN2050 (vemircopan) did not significantly reduce UPCR versus placebo, underscoring safety concerns and lack of efficacy in IgAN.Even though these results are negative, they may inform the prioritization of alternative therapeutic pathways, refining future drug development strategies in IgAN.

In 2025, the treatment landscape for IgA nephropathy (IgAN) experienced significant advancements, marked by multiple FDA approvals and pivotal clinical trial results. The FDA approved sibeprenlimab, atrasentan, and updated REMS for sparsentan, enhancing therapeutic options. Late-stage trials for iptacopan, telitacicept, and others showed promising results in reducing proteinuria and slowing disease progression. The updated KDIGO guidelines emphasized early, mechanism-driven interventions. These developments highlight a shift towards precision-based therapies, offering clinicians a broader array of targeted treatments to manage IgAN effectively.

IgA nephropathy advanced in 2025 with FDA approvals, positive phase 3 trials, and growing disease-modifying therapies


IgA Nephropathy

The HCPLive Berger disease page is a resource for medical news and expert insights on IgA nephropathy. This page features expert-led coverage, articles, videos and research on the therapies and development of treatments in Berger disease, and more.

Nephrology

The HCPLive nephrology page is a resource for medical news and expert insights on kidney disease. This page features expert-led coverage, articles, videos and research on the therapies and development of treatments in nephrology, and more.

IgA Nephropathy in 2025: Year in Review

Tim Smith joined the MJH Life Sciences team in 2022 and is currently an associate editor for HCPLive. He is also the executive producer of two podcasts: Skin of Color Savvy and The Medical Sisterhood. Previously, he was the producer of the Lungcast podcast. He graduated from UC Berkeley and worked in multimedia journalism as a staff writer prior to joining MJH. You can contact him at tsmith@mjhlifesciences.com.

 has spotlighted many major developments in 

 in our coverage, spanning high-impact clinical trial readouts, regulatory decisions by the 

, and evolving standards of care for chronic skin conditions. Notable news headlines included updated safety and efficacy findings on oral small molecules such as Janus Kinase (JAK) inhibitors, continued expansion of biologic and targeted drugs into new dermatologic indications, and growing attention to the role of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital tools in the field.

Alongside these regulatory and research milestones, 

 podcasts throughout the year showcased expert perspectives across dermatology, with discussions highlighting various advances in diagnostic innovation, personalized treatment strategies, and even work-life balance for clinicians. In this Year in Review overview, the editorial team has curated some of the most consequential dermatology-related headlines and expert commentary published on the 

 platform, allowing for greater perspective as 2026 approaches.

Delgocitinib (Anzupgo) Scores FDA Approval for Chronic Hand Eczema

The approval of delgocitinib (Anzupgo) cream was announced in 2025 for the treatment of moderate-to-severe chronic hand eczema (CHE). The announcement by LEO Pharma highlighted delgocitinib cream’s use for CHE among adult patients who have had an inadequate response to, or for whom topical corticosteroids are not advisable. The medication’s FDA approval was based on data from the DELTA 1 and DELTA 2 clinical studies.

FDA Approves Pz-cel (Zevaskyn) Gene Therapy for RDEB

The FDA also approved prademagene zamikeracel (Zevaskyn) in 2025 for the treatment of recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB). Abeona Therapeutics Inc.’s 2025 announcement of the approval noted prademagene zamikeracel, often referred to as pz-cel, is the first autologous cell-based gene therapy for the treatment of wounds in adult and pediatric patients with RDEB, marking a significant milestone for the debilitating condition.

FDA Approves Adalimumab-aaty (Yuflyma) Pediatric Indications in Hidradenitis Suppurativa, Uveitis

The FDA’s approval of adalimumab-aaty (Yuflyma) was announced by Celltrion in 2025, with adalimumab-aaty’s indication expanded, along with its unbranded version, to include adolescent patients ≥ 12 years of age living with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) and treating uveitis (UV) in patients ≥ 2 years of age. The recombinant fully human anti–tumor necrosis factor α (anti-TNFα) monoclonal antibody was designated by the agency as an interchangeable biosimilar in a prefilled syringe and autoinjector.

FDA Approves Remibrutinib for Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria

Remibrutinib (Rhapsido), a highly selective Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor, was approved in 2025 for adults with chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU). The medication was specifically approved for those with CSU who are unresponsive to antihistamines, providing an oral alternative to omalizumab. Phase 3 research on remibrutinib has shown significant reductions in CSU symptoms, with sustained efficacy beibg observed for up to 52 weeks.

ICONIC-ADVANCE: Icotrokinra Beats Deucravacitinib for Plaque Psoriasis

Johnson & Johnson noted, in September 2025 icotrokinra was shown in new data to be superior to deucravacitinib (Sotyktu) for achievement of skin clearance among those with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis at the 16 and 24-week marks. The first-in-class investigational targeted oral IL-23 inhibitor also demonstrated comparable rates of adverse events (AEs) to placebo in 52-week data from the ICONIC-LEAD trial. Both ICONIC-ADVANCE and ICONIC-LEAD’s findings were released at the European Association of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) 2025 Congress in Paris, France.

Nemolizumab Rapidly Relieves Itch in Atopic Dermatitis, Prurigo Nodularis

A post-hoc analysis in 2025 of the ARCADIA and OLYMPIA trials confirmed significant improvements in itch and sleep outcomes by the second day of treatment with nemolizumab. The drug relieved itch and sleep disturbances by the second day of utilization among patients living with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis and those with prurigo nodularis. These data pointed to the potential of targeting the IL-31 pathway for these 2 dermatologic disease states.

Temtokibart Shows Benefit, Effect on Biomarkers in Phase 2b Atopic Dermatitis Trial

A set of presentations on phase 2b findings was released during the European Association of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) 2025 Congress, highlighting temtokibart’s impact in adults with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis. These late-breaking data suggest temtokibart, an investigational monoclonal antibody designed to target the IL-22RA1 receptor subunit from Leo Pharma, was linked with significant improvements in several measures of atopic dermatitis severity and activity.

Once-Daily Oral Zasocitinib Delivers Strong Phase 3 Efficacy in Plaque Psoriasis

Takeda highlighted positive topline findings from a set of phase 3 multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo- and active comparator-controlled studies of zasocitinib (TAK-279) in 2025. The drug, a next-generation, highly selective oral tyrosine kinase 2 (TYK2) inhibitor, was formulted to treat adults with moderate-to-severe psoriasis. In the Latitude studies, the superiority of zasocitinib compared to placebo for the co-primary endpoints of static Physician Global Assessment (sPGA) 0/1 and Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) 75 was observed at the 16-week mark.

AI in Dermatology: Discussing Downsides to the Adoption of Artificial Intelligence

In a ‘This Year in Medicine’ series feature article from 2025, titled ‘AI in Dermatology: Discussing Downsides to the Adoption of Artificial Intelligence,' the evolving topic of AI, its practical use in fields such as medicine, and the potential downsides of its widespread utilization were covered. Despite the view among many in the field suggesting AI is beneficial for addressing the needs of patients with diseases such as psoriasis, this feature highlighted 3 experts’ varied opinions on AI and recent data highlighting possible issues with reliance on such technologies.

Rethinking the Black Box: JAK Inhibitors Find Their Place in Dermatology

In a feature posted in October 2025, interviews with a series of experts in dermatology were conducted to examine different perceptions in JAK inhibitor safety, to explore the initial excitement surrounding such drugs, the subsequent caution resulting from black box warnings, and the more recent confidence seen in the months since. JAK inhibitors and their safety were viewed as important to examine in this feature, as they have seen an explosion in approvals and are fast becoming key players in the management of conditions such as psoriasis, alopecia areata, and atopic dermatitis.

The Connection Between Gut Health and Dermatologic Diseases

 Special Report series, Raj Chovatiya, MD, PhD, clinical associate professor at Rosalind Franklin University Chicago Medical School and the director of the Center for Medical Dermatology and Immunology Research, spoke alongside his wife, Adalina Hung, MD, a board-certified gastroenterologist and hepatologist. Hung is known for her role as director of the IBD Program at Sinai Health System, Chicago, and as a clinical assistant professor at the Rosalind Franklin University Medical School. The pair highlighted the overlapping immunologic and barrier-based mechanisms shared between dermatologic and gastrointestinal diseases.

In 2025, significant advancements in dermatology were marked by FDA approvals, clinical trial updates, and expert insights. Key FDA approvals included delgocitinib for chronic hand eczema, prademagene zamikeracel for RDEB, and remibrutinib for chronic spontaneous urticaria. Clinical trials revealed promising results for icotrokinra in plaque psoriasis and nemolizumab in atopic dermatitis. The role of AI in dermatology was critically examined, alongside discussions on JAK inhibitors and the interplay between gut health and dermatologic diseases, providing a comprehensive overview of the year's dermatological progress.

Catch up on news headlines highlighted in the dermatology space by HCPLive in 2025 with this Year in Review.

Dermatology

The HCPLive dermatology page is a resource for medical news and expert insights on skin disease. This page features expert-led coverage, articles, videos and research on the therapies and development of treatments for dermatologic conditions, and more.

Plaque Psoriasis

The HCPLive plaque psoriasis page is a resource for medical news and expert insights on psoriasis. This page features expert-led coverage, articles, videos and research on the therapies and development of treatments for psoriatic disease, and more.

Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic Dermatitis condition center page, audiences can find a variety of coverage mediums for medical news and updates, including articles, video interviews, podcasts, and breaking news on dermatitis research, treatment, and drug development.

Dermatology in 2025: Year in Review

Chelsie Derman is an associate editor for 

who covers psychiatry, sleep medicine, geriatrics, migraine, and allergy. She joined MJH Life Sciences in September 2023 after graduating from The College of New Jersey with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and professional writing. In her free time, she enjoys creative writing and reading.

The past year saw significant progress in 

 approvals expanding treatment options for hereditary angioedema (HAE), including donidalorsen, sebetralstat, and garadacimab-gxii. Clinicians now have access to therapies that improve attack prevention, offer oral and less frequent dosing options, and provide new tools for pediatric patients, addressing long-standing gaps in care.

Beyond HAE, advances in food allergy management, chronic rhinosinusitis, and anaphylaxis treatment highlighted the evolving landscape. Early peanut introduction continues to reduce allergy prevalence, intranasal epinephrine offers a needle-free emergency option, and dupilumab shows promise in difficult-to-treat allergic fungal rhinosinusitis. Together, these developments are reshaping clinical practice and patient management across age groups.

FDA Approves Donidalorsen to Prevent Hereditary Angioedema Attacks

The FDA approved the RNA-targeted donidalorsen (DAWNZERA) to prevent HAE attacks in patients aged ≥ 12 years, announced by Ionis Pharmaceuticals on August 21, 2025. Backed by OASIS-HAE, OASISplus, and phase 2 OLE trials, the therapy cut monthly attacks up to 81%, with sustained safety.

FDA’s Approval of Donidalorsen for HAE, With William Lumry, MD

Sebetralstat FDA-Approved as First Oral, On-Demand for Hereditary Angioedema

Announced on July 7, 2025, the FDA approved KalVista Pharmaceuticals’ sebetralstat (Ekterly), the first oral, on-demand therapy for acute HAE in patients aged ≥ 12 years. Supported by phase 3 KONFIDENT trials, experts say it enables earlier, guideline-aligned treatment.

FDA Approves Factor XIIa-Targeting Garadacimab-gxii (ANDEMBRY) for HAE Attacks

CSL announced on June 16, 2025, that the FDA approved garadacimab-gxii (ANDEMBRY), the first factor XIIa–targeting therapy to prevent HAE attacks in patients aged ≥ 12 years. CSL’s once-monthly monoclonal antibody reduced HAE attacks by ≥ 99% versus placebo in the phase 3 VANGUARD trial, offering a convenient, citrate-free prophylactic option.

FDA Approves First Interchangeable Biosimilar for Omalizumab

Announced on March 9, 2025, the FDA approved omalizumab-igec (OMLYCLO), the first interchangeable biosimilar to Xolair, for asthma, chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP), IgE-mediated food allergy, and chronic spontaneous urticaria. Phase 3 trials confirmed bioequivalence, safety, and efficacy. Celltrion USA highlights OMLYCLO’s potential to expand patient access, reduce healthcare costs, and offer convenient prefilled syringe dosing.

FDA Approves Oral Berotralstat for Children Aged 2 – 11 Years with HAE

Biocryst on December 12, 2025, announced that the FDA approved berotralstat (ORLADEYO) oral granules for children aged 2–11 years with HAE, providing the first pediatric oral prophylactic option. Based on APeX-P trial data, berotralstat safely reduced monthly attacks, offering a less burdensome alternative to infusions or injections and addressing a critical treatment gap in young patients with HAE.

Cephalexin Recommended for Dermatologic Surgery with Penicillin Allergy

The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery recommends cephalexin as the first-line prophylactic antibiotic for patients with penicillin allergy undergoing dermatologic surgery. With low cross-reactivity, especially among first-generation cephalosporins, cephalexin offers superior safety and efficacy. True penicillin allergy is uncommon, and most patients lose sensitivity over time.

New Guidelines Outline When to Consider Sinus Surgery for Chronic Rhinosinusitis

The American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery released updated guidelines for chronic rhinosinusitis, offering 11 evidence-based recommendations. Surgery is advised when benefits outweigh medical therapy, particularly for patients with polyps, fungal infections, frequent exacerbations, or worsening asthma, emphasizing diagnosis confirmation and avoiding unnecessary antibiotics.

Over 70% of Toddlers Tolerate 3 to 4 Peanut Kernels 3 Years After Peanut Patch

New data from the 2025 ACAAI meeting show the Viaskin Peanut Patch builds peanut tolerance in over 70% of toddlers after 3 years. Epicutaneous immunotherapy safely delivers peanut protein through the skin, increasing tolerated amounts and reducing severe reactions. This patch offers a promising long-term option for early peanut allergy management.

Dupilumab Shows Promise for Allergic Fungal Rhinosinusitis in Phase 3 Trial, With Amber Luong, MD, PhD

Phase 3 LIBERTY AIMS data show dupilumab (Dupixent) significantly improves outcomes in allergic fungal rhinosinusitis (AFRS), a challenging CRSwNP subtype. In 62 patients, dupilumab reduced sinus opacification, nasal polyp size, congestion, and the need for surgery or oral corticosteroids, offering a safe, steroid-sparing treatment option for difficult-to-treat AFRS.

Pharvaris’ Deucrictibant Provides Rapid Relief for HAE in Phase 3 RAPIDe-3 Trial

Phase 3 RAPIDe-3 trial shows oral deucrictibant rapidly relieves HAE symptoms, with onset under 90 minutes and most attacks resolving with a single dose. The bradykinin B2 receptor antagonist demonstrated significant symptom improvement versus placebo and a favorable safety profile, supporting its potential as an on-demand HAE therapy.

Peanut Allergy Rates Plummet 10 Years After AAP Early Introduction Guidelines

A decade after AAP's early peanut introduction guidelines, peanut allergy rates dropped 27–43%, with overall IgE-mediated food allergies also declining. This report highlighted the real-world impact of early introduction while emphasizing ongoing challenges in guideline implementation.

One Year Later: How Intranasal Epinephrine Is Changing Emergency Allergy Treatment

One year after FDA approval, intranasal epinephrine (neffy) offers a needle-free, easy-to-use alternative for anaphylaxis, improving accessibility, clinician experience, and patient adherence, particularly for children and needle-averse individuals.

Recent advancements in allergy and immunology have led to multiple FDA approvals, expanding treatment options for hereditary angioedema (HAE) with therapies like donidalorsen, sebetralstat, and garadacimab-gxii. These treatments offer improved attack prevention, oral and less frequent dosing, and pediatric options. Progress in food allergy management, chronic rhinosinusitis, and anaphylaxis treatment is reshaping clinical practice. Notable developments include early peanut introduction reducing allergy prevalence, intranasal epinephrine as a needle-free emergency option, and dupilumab's promise in treating allergic fungal rhinosinusitis.

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