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.

Image Credit: US Food and Drug Administration

 accepted the Biologics License Application (BLA) for – and granted Priority Review to – veligrotug, an intravenous anti-insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R) antibody in development for 

Announced by parent company Viridian Therapeutics, veligrotug’s BLA is supported by positive topline data from the THRIVE and THRIVE-2 phase 3 clinical trials. During both trials, veligrotug achieved the primary and all secondary endpoints, showing a rapid onset of clinical benefit. Additionally, the FDA has announced a PDUFA target action date of June 30, 2026.

“We are thrilled that the FDA granted Priority Review for veligrotug, marking another significant milestone for Viridian and the TED community,” Steve Mahoney, president and CEO of Viridian, said in a statement. “This designation is a recognition that, if approved, veligrotug would be a significant improvement in the safety or effectiveness of treating a serious condition.”

THRIVE saw veligrotug compared to placebo among patients with moderate to severe TED. To be eligible for inclusion, patients had to have a Clinical Activity Score of ≥3 on the 7-item scale for the study eye and moderate to severe TED with documented evidence of ocular symptoms or signs beginning within 15 months before screening. Patients who had received prior treatment with another anti-IGF-1R therapy, had used systemic corticosteroids or selenium within 2 weeks of Day 1, or had received rituximab, tocilizumab, or other immunosuppressive agents within 8 weeks of Day 1 were excluded, among other criteria.

Patients were randomized to receive either veligrotug 10 mg/kg or a matching placebo. THRIVE’s primary endpoint was proptosis responder rate in the study eye at week 15. Secondary measures included change from baseline in proptosis as measured by exophthalmometer, change from baseline in Clinical Activity Score, and change from baseline in proptosis as measured by MRI/CT.

Ultimately, 70% of veligrotug recipients (21/30), who were proptosis responders at week 15 and continued treatment out to the end of the study at 52 weeks, maintained their proptosis response. Additionally, there were no changes to the safety profile for the duration of the follow-up period.

THRIVE-2 was a randomized, double-masked, placebo-controlled study involving patients with chronic TED. Patients were eligible for inclusion if they exhibited severe chronic TED with documented evidence of ocular symptoms and had a clinical diagnosis of TED with any Clinical Activity Score. Patients were excluded if they had received prior treatment with anti-IGF-1R therapy, systemic corticosteroids, or other immunosuppressive drugs, among other criteria.

Patients were randomly assigned to receive 5 intravitreal infusions of either veligrotug 10 mg/kg or a matching placebo every 3 weeks for a duration of 12 weeks. The trial’s primary endpoint was the proptosis responder rate in the most proptotic eye. Secondary endpoints included change from baseline in proptosis, Clinical Activity Responder Rate in the most proptotic eye, and diplopia responder rate, among others.

Ultimately, 56% of veligrotug recipients were proptosis responders, compared to 8% in the placebo arm. Proptosis response was significant at all time points, beginning at 3 weeks after the first infusion, which demonstrated veligrotug’s rapid onset of response. Additionally, the veligrotug arm achieved a mean proptosis reduction of 2.34 mm, compared to 0.46 mm in the placebo arm. THRIVE-2 also saw 56% of veligrotug recipients achieve a diplopia response, compared to 25% in the placebo arm. Rapid onset was observed as early as 6 weeks after the first 2 infusions. 32% of veligrotug recipients achieved complete resolution of diplopia, compared with 14% of the placebo arm.

“We very much appreciate all of the support we’ve received from patients, investigators, and our clinical partners,” Mahoney said in a statement. “We look forward to working closely with the FDA as we advance toward our goal of delivering a potentially transformative therapy to people living with thyroid eye disease and establishing Viridian as a leading commercial company in TED.”

Viridian Therapeutics, Inc. Viridian Therapeutics Announces BLA Acceptance and Priority Review for Veligrotug for the Treatment of Thyroid Eye Disease. 

. December 22, 2025. Accessed December 22, 2025. 

https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251222159703/en/Viridian-Therapeutics-Announces-BLA-Acceptance-and-Priority-Review-for-Veligrotug-for-the-Treatment-of-Thyroid-Eye-Disease

Viridian Therapeutics, Inc. A Safety, Tolerability, and Efficacy Study of Veligrotug (VRDN 001) in Healthy Volunteers and Participants With Thyroid Eye Disease (TED) (THRIVE) (THRIVE). ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05176639. Updated July 18, 2025. Accessed December 22, 2025. 

https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05176639

Viridian Therapeutics, Inc. Viridian Therapeutics Announces Positive Long-Term Durability Data from the Veligrotug Phase 3 THRIVE Clinical Trial in Patients with Active Thyroid Eye Disease (TED). May 20, 2025. December 22, 2025. 

https://investors.viridiantherapeutics.com/news/news-details/2025/Viridian-Therapeutics-Announces-Positive-Long-Term-Durability-Data-from-the-Veligrotug-Phase-3-THRIVE-Clinical-Trial-in-Patients-with-Active-Thyroid-Eye-Disease-TED/default.aspx

Viridian Therapeutics, Inc. An Efficacy, Safety, and Tolerability Study of Veligrotug (VRDN-001), in Participants With Chronic Thyroid Eye Disease (TED) (THRIVE-2) (THRIVE-2). ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT06021054. Updated October 23, 2025. Accessed December 22, 2025. 

https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06021054

Viridian Therapeutics, Inc. Viridian Therapeutics Announces Positive Topline Results from Veligrotug Phase 3 THRIVE-2 Clinical Trial in Patients with Chronic Thyroid Eye Disease. December 16, 2024. Accessed December 22, 2025. 

https://investors.viridiantherapeutics.com/news/news-details/2024/Viridian-Therapeutics-5: Announces-Positive-Topline-Results-from-Veligrotug-Phase-3-THRIVE-2-Clinical-Trial-in-Patients-with-Chronic-Thyroid-Eye-Disease/default.aspx

Articles

The FDA has accepted the Biologics License Application for veligrotug, an anti-IGF-1R antibody for thyroid eye disease, granting it Priority Review. Supported by positive results from the THRIVE and THRIVE-2 phase 3 trials, veligrotug demonstrated rapid clinical benefits and met all primary and secondary endpoints. The THRIVE trial showed a 70% proptosis response rate, while THRIVE-2 showed a 56% response rate with significant proptosis reduction. The FDA's PDUFA target action date is June 30, 2026, marking a potential advancement in TED treatment.

The FDA’s decision is based on positive results from the phase 3 THRIVE and THRIVE-2 clinical trials, which showed veligrotug’s efficacy and rapid onset of benefits.

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.

Ophthalmology

Ophthalmology page, resources on the topics of medical news and expert insight into ophthalmic disease can be found. Content includes articles, interviews, videos, podcasts, and breaking news on eye disease research, treatment, and drug development.

FDA News

FDA Accepts, Grants Priority Review to Veligrotug BLA for Thyroid Eye Disease

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.

In the year 2025, a variety of notable headlines in dermatology news were highlighted by the 

In addition to psoriasis research and decisions by the FDA, the year 2025 also saw a variety of podcast episodes featured on the 

 website highlighting emerging research and expert opinions on psoriasis management. In this Year in Review summary, the team has included some of the most notable developments and expert commentaries posted on the 

 website, providing an in-depth glance at psoriasis news and a sneak peek into the year ahead:

FDA Approves Once-Daily Roflumilast (ZORYVE) Foam 0.3% for Scalp and Body Psoriasis

Roflumilast (Zoryve) foam 0.3% was approved in May 2025 as a once-daily topical therapy for adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older with psoriasis. Approximately 9 million individuals in the US live with psoriasis, and over half of such patients report scalp involvement. Previous clinical research showed significant efficacy in clearing plaques and providing rapid itch relief among such patients, with positive findings being seen in phase 2 and 3 trials. The approval of the non-steroidal psoriasis therapeutic option was announced by Arcutis Biotherapeutics, Inc.

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

Johnson & Johnson’s guselkumab (Tremfya) was approved in September 2025 for the treatment of children ≥ 6 years of age with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who also weigh ≥ 40 kg (88 lbs) and are candidates for systemic drugs or phototherapy. It was also approved for active psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Guselkumab’s FDA approval made the drug the first and only interleukin (IL)-23 inhibitor approved for these pediatric indications. The decision followed the initial approvals by FDA officials for adults living with moderate to severe psoriasis in 2017 and active PsA in 2020.

FDA Accepts sNDA for Roflumilast Cream 0.3% in Children Ages 2 to 5 with Psoriasis

In November 2025, the FDA accepted a supplemental New Drug Application (sNDA) for roflumilast (Zoryve) cream 0.3% in children aged 2-5 years with psoriasis. This decision could potentially expand the treatment’s indication. Roflumilast cream 0.3% was designed as a topical PDE4 inhibitor for children with psoriasis and is now pending approval. The topical demonstrated safety, tolerability, and efficacy in children aged 2-11 under maximal use conditions. Arcutis Biotherapeutics, Inc. also highlighted the drug’s PDUFA target action date of June 29, 2026, for roflumilast cream’s potential approval in this new age range.

Oral IL-23 Blocker Icotrokinra Sustains High Clearance in Scalp and Genital Psoriasis

In October 2025, Johnson & Johnson released new 52-week results from the phase 3 ICONIC-TOTAL study assessing icotrokinra for adults and adolescents ≥12 years with psoriasis involving high-impact and difficult-to-treat regions of the body, such as the scalp, hands, genitals, and feet. The treatment is a first-in-class, oral peptide designed to selectively block the IL-23 receptor. Its findings were presented at the 2025 Fall Clinical Dermatology Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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

In December 2025, Takeda announced positive topline findings for a pair of phase 3 multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo- and active comparator-controlled studies of zasocitinib (TAK-279). The treatment is a next-generation, highly selective oral tyrosine kinase 2 (TYK2) inhibitor and is designed to treat adults with moderate-to-severe psoriasis. The Latitude studies demonstrated 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 at the 16-week mark. Investigators noted a significantly greater PASI 75 response rate as early as 4 weeks in and continuing to increase through Week 24. All 44 ranked secondary endpoints were also met against placebo and apremilast.

ICONIC-ADVANCE: Icotrokinra Beats Deucravacitinib for Plaque Psoriasis

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

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

One notable feature article included in the ‘This Year in Medicine’ series was titled ‘AI in Dermatology: Discussing Downsides to the Adoption of Artificial Intelligence.’ In this feature, the evolving topic of artificial intelligence (AI), its practical application in fields such as medicine, and the possible downsides of its implementation were highlighted. 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.

Opportunities for TYK2 Inhibition in Moderate Psoriasis

In this episode of the Peers & Perspectives series, a set of expert panelists discussed a series of questions related to TYK2 inhibition for psoriasis. The 2 experts featured in this iteration of the series were Christopher G. Bunick, MD, PhD, associate professor of Dermatology at the Yale School of Medicine, and April W. Armstrong, MD, MPH, professor and chief of Dermatology at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Armstrong and Bunick touched on emerging TYK2 inhibitors, such as zasocitinib and ESK-001, IMMpulse trial findings, and opportunities for TYK2 inhibitors to be used earlier in appropriate patients.

Icotrokinra vs Deucravacitinib: Results from the ICONIC-ADVANCE 1 and 2 Trials

In this iteration of the Peer Exchange series on 

’s website, 3 panelists spoke about recent findings from the ICONIC-ADVANCE 1 and 2 studies, comparing icotrokinra with deucravacitinib. The 3 panelists on this episode were Linda Stein Gold, MD, of the Henry Ford Health System, Jennifer Soung, MD, of the Clinical Faculty at Harbor University of California, and David Cotter, MD, PhD, of Las Vegas Dermatology. The panelists highlighted, among other topics, gaps in psoriasis care, the International Psoriasis Council’s (IPC) new definition of “topical failure,” the icotrokinra (ICO) clinical development program, the ICONIC-ADVANCE 1 and 2 trials, and new week 52 ICONIC-LEAD data showing sustained clearance and no new safety signals in adults and adolescents using icotrokinra.

In 2025, significant advancements in psoriasis treatment were marked by FDA approvals and trial data. Notably, roflumilast foam and guselkumab received FDA approval for specific psoriasis indications, while roflumilast cream's sNDA was accepted for young children. Trials like ICONIC-TOTAL and Latitude demonstrated promising results for icotrokinra and zasocitinib, respectively. Additionally, expert discussions on TYK2 inhibitors and AI in dermatology were featured in podcasts, providing insights into emerging therapies and the implications of AI adoption in medical practice.

Catch up on some of the most notable headlines in psoriasis news coverage from 2025 with our Year in Review.

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.

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.

Psoriasis 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.

A new study found that drinking lemon water for 6 weeks significantly reduced serum urate (SU) levels in participants with 

“This is the first study that shows that lemon water has hypouricemic and alkalizing properties in gout and individuals with hyperuricemia,” wrote study investigator Biernat-Kaluza Edyta, MD, PhD, from the Rheumatological Clinic in Poland, and colleagues.

 “Lemon water may be helpful as an adjuvant hypouricemic therapy for gout and individuals with hyperuricemia.”

An elevated SU level over 6.8 mg d/L, otherwise known as hyperuricemia, raises the risk for gout development by promoting crystal deposition in and around the joints. Untreated deposition may lead to tophi formation and destructive arthritis, resulting in recurrent gout flares.

No cure exists for gout, but there are urate-lowering medications to prevent recurrent flares, tophi, and continued structural joint damage.

 However, these drugs can be poorly tolerated in certain patients and may be contraindicated in those with coexisting conditions, particularly in older adults. When it comes to gout medication, it tends to get worse before better; crystal disruption often triggers flares early in the treatment course, and the improvement can take up to 6 to 12 months.

Investigators proposed a potential treatment for hyperuricemia: lemons.

Lemons are highly acidic, with a pH of 2.3, due to their citric acid content, which gives them their characteristic sour taste. Despite this acidity, lemon juice can indirectly promote bicarbonate production in the body, helping to neutralize acids such as uric acid.

A recent study investigated whether drinking freshly squeezed lemon juice in water could benefit individuals with hyperuricemia or gout by lowering SU levels and affecting urine pH and kidney function.

For their retrospective analysis, investigators leveraged the medical records of patients with gout who visited 2 outpatient Polish rheumatology clinics. The sample included 90 patients, with 69% men and a median age of 49.2 years. Most participants had comorbidities (78.9%), including dyslipidemia (74.4%), hypertension (28.9%), hyperglycemia (18.9%), diabetes mellitus (12.2%), and ischemic heart disease (11.1%).

Patients were categorized into 3 arms: group A (diagnosed with gout), group B (diagnosed with hyperuricemia with no gout), and group C (diagnosed with other conditions than gout; the controls). Investigators collected data on medical and medication histories, SU levels, glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and urine pH levels.

Each day, patients consumed a beverage of two squeezed lemons in 2 L of water, per provider recommendation. After 6 weeks, SU levels reduced from baseline in patients with gout (group A; mean reduction, 1.25 mg/dL) compared to patients with hyperuricemia but no gout (group B; mean reduction, 1.31 mg/dL; 

 =.03) and controls (group C; mean reduction, 0.85 mg/dL; 

 =.003). During the 6 weeks of drinking lemon water, no flares occurred in either group.

Investigators also observed an increase in GFR among 8 patients with gout (1 to > 25 mL/min) compared to patients with hyperuricemia but no gout (8 to > 15 mL/min in 2 patients; 

Furthermore, urine pH levels increased in the 3 groups: Participants with gout increased by 0 – 2 pH units (mean 1.17 pH units), those with hyperuricemia but no gout increased by 0 – 2 pH units (mean 1.3 pH units), and controls increased by 0 – 3.5 pH units (mean 1.13 pH units). However, the increased urine pH levels did not have a significant difference: group A vs B (

“Lemon water might be an inexpensive, widely available, safe, and well-tolerated supporting therapeutic option for individuals with gout and hyperuricemia,” investigators concluded.

 “Large prospective randomized controlled trials of lemon water as adjuvant therapy in treating gout and hyperuricemia are warranted.”

Edyta BK, Brunetti L, Naomi S. Lemon Water Reduces Serum Urate Levels in Gout Patients and Individuals With Hyperuricemia-A Pilot Study. 

Gout Tophi. Cleveland Clinic. Accessed December 19, 2025. 

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/gout-tophi-tophus

Why is Gout Such a Tough Out? Rheumatology Advisor. Published August 23, 2023. Accessed December 19, 2025. 

https://www.rheumatologyadvisor.com/news/why-is-gout-such-a-tough-out/#:~:text=Suffering%20the%20storm%20before%20the,many%20patients%20simply%20give%20up

A recent study demonstrated that consuming lemon water for six weeks significantly reduced serum urate levels in individuals with gout and hyperuricemia. The study suggests lemon water's potential as an adjuvant hypouricemic therapy due to its alkalizing properties. Participants consuming lemon water experienced no gout flares and showed improvements in glomerular filtration rate and urine pH levels. Despite the promising results, the study calls for larger randomized controlled trials to further validate lemon water's efficacy as a supportive treatment for gout and hyperuricemia.

Six weeks of freshly squeezed lemon juice diluted in water significantly reduced serum urate and improved kidney function in patients with gout and hyperuricemia.

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.

Gout

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

Daily Lemon Water Lowers Serum Urate Levels in Patients With Hyperuricemia

 – between the approval and release of new glucose monitors, like the Dexcom G7 15-day and the Biolinq Shine, and the meteoric rise of orforglipron through the investigative period for T2D. The 

 also played a major role this year, with highlights including the first oral GLP-1 receptor agonist for cardiovascular risk reduction in T2D and the end of the years-long semaglutide and tirzepatide shortage.

With so many critical updates in an already busy year, the editorial team at 

 has collected the top 13 stories of 2025, including key FDA approvals, crucial trial results, and expert clinician perspectives. Catch up on some of the biggest news you missed in 2025 below:


FDA Approves Semaglutide (Ozempic) for Type 2 Diabetes, Chronic Kidney Disease


On January 28, 2025, the FDA approved semaglutide for cardiovascular disease-related mortality and worsening kidney disease in patients with T2D and 

. This decision addressed a significant treatment gap in T2D, especially given the connection between T2D and major kidney and cardiovascular outcomes. The FDA’s decision was based on the phase 3b FLOW trial, which saw semaglutide demonstrate superior risk reduction of kidney disease worsening and cardiovascular disease death when added to standard care versus placebo.


FDA Announces End to Shortage of Semaglutide Products (Ozempic, Wegovy)


On February 21, 2025, Novo Nordisk announced an end to the shortage of semaglutide products, which had begun in March of 2022. The FDA and Novo Nordisk confirmed that manufacturing capabilities could now meet projected national demand, although supply disruptions continued for a brief period after the announcement. This declaration also put an end to the issue of compounded medications, which circulated from 2022 until 2025 and posed a serious risk to patients, given their lower quality and potential to cause direct harm.


Dexcom announced on April 10, 2025, that the new G7 continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system received clearance from the FDA. Besides the longest-lasting CGM system on the market at 15.5 days of wear and a mean absolute relative difference of 8%, the G7 also boasts a waterproof sensor, direct connectivity to smartwatches, and automated activity logging with a 12-hour grace period for an uninterrupted transition for sensor replacement. Dexcom has more recently announced a planned pharmaceutical launch in early January 2026.


FDA Grants De Novo Classification to Needle-Free Glucose Monitor


With this De Novo Classification, the Biolinq Shine stands to become the first wearable glucose biosensor to not require a needle for sensor placement. The monitor will integrate glucose, activity, and sleep information into a single, autonomous device in the form of a patch placed on the forearm. The Biolinq Shine will provide real-time glucose feedback through a primary color-coded LED display. It circumvents the need for a subcutaneous introducer needle by utilizing a microsensor array, which is up to 20 times shallower than conventional continuous glucose sensors.


FDA Approves Oral Semaglutide (Rybelsus) for CV Risk Reduction in Type 2 Diabetes


On October 17, 2025, the FDA announced their approval of oral semaglutide, which is now the first oral GLP-1 approved for major adverse cardiovascular events in adult patients with T2D. This decision further blurs the line between endocrinology and cardiology, with this semaglutide dose demonstrating a substantial 14% relative risk reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events after 4 years of follow-up in the phase 3b SOUL trial.


SOUL: Oral Semaglutide Cuts MACE by 14% in People with Type 2 Diabetes


4-year results from the SOUL trial provided the backbone for the FDA’s approval of oral semaglutide for cardiovascular disease risk – the tablet dose led to a 14% reduction of cardiovascular death, heart attack, and stroke in patients with T2D. This double-blind, placebo-controlled, event-driven, superiority trial marked the first significant exploration of oral semaglutide’s impact on cardiovascular outcomes, and its positive topline results helped to boost GLP-1s to their current cardioprotective standing.


Obicetrapib Reduces HbA1c, New-Onset Diabetes Risk in ASCVD, HeFH


A pooled analysis of the phase 3 BROOKLYN and BROADWAY trials highlighted obicetrapib’s capacity for reducing HbA1c and lowering new-onset diabetes risk in patients with 

 or heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia and prediabetes or normoglycemia. Meta-analysis results from this pooled analysis showed similarities between obicetrapib and other CETP inhibitors, opening an important new pathway for preventative medicine research in prediabetes.


CATALYST Trial: Mifepristone Improves Glycemic Control in Type 2 Diabetes with Hypercortisolism


Part 2 of the phase 4 CATALYST trial highlighted mifepristone’s efficacy in improving glycemic control, reducing body weight, and decreasing waist circumference in patients with T2D and hypercortisolism, leading to 49% of patients on mifepristone discontinuing therapy compared to 18% in placebo. Although investigators also noted an increase in blood pressure as a result of mifepristone treatment, the data still offer a promising new opportunity for a historically underserved population.


Orforglipron Delivers Weight Loss, A1C Reductions in Phase 3 ATTAIN-2 Trial


Orforglipron was thrust into the spotlight after the ATTAIN-2 trial highlighted substantial improvements in cardiometabolic risk factors, weight loss, and A1C reduction in patients with 

 or overweight and T2D. The trial met its primary and all key secondary endpoints, positioning the once-daily small molecule oral GLP-1 as a revolutionary method of circumventing the frequent issues and stresses patients face in a field of only injectable agents.


ACHIEVE-3: Orforglipron Superior to Semaglutide for Type 2 Diabetes in Phase 3 Trial


Continuing its rapid advancements, orforglipron also outperformed semaglutide in treating T2D inadequately controlled with metformin. Results from the phase 3 ACHIEVE-3 trial showed an average A1C reduction of 1.9% and 2.2% for the 12 and 36 mg doses of orforglipron, compared to 1.1% and 1.4% in the 7 and 14 mg doses of semaglutide. Additionally, orforglipron recipients saw an average loss of 14.6 and 19.7 lbs, compared to 7.9 and 11 lbs in semaglutide. Between ACHIEVE and ATTAIN, orforglipron is positioned for an excellent performance in 2026.

Diabetes Dialogue: ADA’s 2025 Standards of Care in Diabetes Therapeutics


In this January 2025 episode of Diabetes Dialogue, cohosts Diana Isaacs, PharmD, and Natalie Bellini, DNP, discussed the updated American Diabetes Association (ADA) 2025 Standards of Care. These updates included substantial changes to treatment algorithms, aiming to expand flexibility for treating T2D and CKD. The ADA highlighted treatments such as GLP-1s and sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, particularly in combination.


Diabetes Dialogue: CATALYST Trial, Mifepristone, and Hypercortisolism in T2D, with John Buse, MD, PhD


This June 23, 2025 episode saw Isaacs and Bellini speak with John Buse, MD, PhD, of the University of North Carolina School of Medicine, about the phase 4 CATALYST trial. During the trial, mifepristone (Korlym) had shown significant improvements in glycemic control and reductions in body weight and waist circumference in patients with hypercortisolism and difficult-to-control T2D. Given this population’s history of limited treatment success, mifepristone is a promising new alternative to existing medications.


Diabetes Dialogue: Reacting to Retatrutide and TRIUMPH-4 Topline Data


On December 16, 2025, Isaacs and Bellini covered the groundbreaking TRIUMPH-4 trial data, which showcased retatrutide’s impact on weight and pain for patients with obesity and osteoarthritis. The once-weekly triple GIP/GLP-1/glucagon receptor agonist caused a mean weight loss of 28.7% at 68 weeks, plus a reduction of 75.8% in WOMAC pain scores from baseline by week 68. Although full trial details are still forthcoming, these findings reflect positively on the ADA’s recent push towards obesity-related comorbidities like osteoarthritis, sleep apnea, and kidney disease.

The year 2025 marked significant advancements in type 2 diabetes (T2D) management, with notable FDA approvals and trial results. Key developments included the approval of semaglutide for cardiovascular and kidney disease in T2D patients, the end of the semaglutide shortage, and the introduction of innovative glucose monitoring systems like the Dexcom G7 and Biolinq Shine. Orforglipron emerged as a promising oral GLP-1 receptor agonist, demonstrating superior efficacy in weight loss and A1C reduction compared to semaglutide. These advancements highlight the evolving landscape of T2D treatment and management.

Catch up on the most impactful headlines in T2D from all of 2025 with our Year in Review.

Endocrinology

The HCPLive endocrinology page is a comprehensive resource for clinical news and insights on endocrine system conditions. This page consists of interviews, articles, podcasts, and videos on the research, treatment and development of therapies for diabetes, hormonal disease, and more.

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 Diabetes in 2025: Year in Review

Weight-loss interventions may improve the severity and quality of life of patients with 

, new findings suggest, and such interventions may be considered for routine treatment plans.

These recent findings were authored by a team of investigators led by Sarah Morrow, MSc, a Dermatology Specialist Registrar at Oxford University Hospitals in the UK. In this study, Morrow et al noted previous meta-analyses had only looked at behavioural weight-loss interventions and not quality-of-life.

Additionally, Morrow and colleagues noted such reviews had not previously been conducted to assess the full weight-loss intervention range. They noted such reviews may also have not had sufficient data to meta-analyse necessary patient-reported outcomes such as dermatology life quality index (DLQI).

“This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to address this evidence gap by synthesising and quantifying the impact of any weight-loss intervention on psoriasis severity and/or patient quality of life,” Morrow and coauthors wrote.

The investigative team utilized 5 bibliographic databases and 2 clinical study registries from inception through to March 9, 2025 for their comprehensive literature search. The selection of outcomes used by the team was guided by insights gathered from previous patient focus group discussions. Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid PsycINFO, Ovid Embase, EBSCOhost CINAHL, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Web of Science Core Collection were all searched by an information specialist (EH).

This specialist used the Cochrane randomized controlled trial filter. The search strategies used in Morrow and colleagues' research were informed by prior systematic reviews in the dermatology field. Studies deemed eligible by the investigators were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) enrolling adult subjects with psoriasis. These studies, in order to be eligible, would also have looked at any form of weight-loss intervention and compared it to usual care or a less intensive weight-loss approach. 

The investigative team also required such RCTs to report any shifts in patients' body weight along with at least a single measure of psoriasis disease severity or health-related quality of life. The generation of pooled estimates took place using random-effects meta-analytic models. Morrow et al's screening of RCTs carried out independently by pairs of reviewers, with data extraction being performed via Covidence. Resolution of any disagreements took place through discussion, and corresponding authors were contacted when clarification or additional information was warranted.

There were 13 RCTs in total, encompassing 1145 study subjects and contributing 14 intervention–control comparisons, which Morrow and coauthors said met their criteria for inclusion. Among the included interventions, there were 3 studies assessing pharmacologic weight-loss therapies and 11 assessing dietary modification, with 4 of the latter group also incorporating physical activity components. Across all 14 comparisons, the investigative team noted the mean difference in weight change between intervention and control groups was −6.7 kg.

The team found weight-loss interventions were linked with a significantly greater reduction in subjects' Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) scores compared with control conditions.

 They specifically highlighted a mean difference of −2.5 (95% CI, −3.8 to −1.1) and substantial heterogeneity (I² = 85.2%). Interventions for weight-loss were also shown to have substantially increased patients' probability of attaining PASI75.

Based on 6 comparisons including 681 participants, all of which saw a mean difference in weight change of −7.3 kg, Morrow et al noted the relative risk for attainment of PASI75 was 1.6 (95% CI, 1.1–2.2), with low to moderate heterogeneity (I² = 22.6%).

 Conversely, they found no statistically significant effects for participants' PASI50 or PASI100 responses.

For PASI50, there were 4 comparisons highlighted by the investigators involving 509 participants and a mean weight change difference of −4.0 kg yielded a relative risk of 1.5 (95% CI, 0.9–2.4) with considerable heterogeneity (I² = 72.8%).

 For PASI100, there were 2 comparisons comprising 334 participants and a mean weight change difference of −5.2 kg, which the team noted had a relative risk of 1.6 (95% CI, 0.3–9.7). There was no observed heterogeneity (I² = 0.0%). Both of these studies were constrained by the small number of contributing analyses.

Dermatology-specific quality of life improvements were also noted by the investigative team.

 Across the 7 comparisons highlighted by Morrow et al, including 364 participants, the mean difference in weight change was −7.8 kg and weight-loss interventions were linked with a significantly greater improvement in patients' DLQI scores compared with control groups. There was a mean difference of −5.0 (95% CI, −9.7 to −0.3) and a high level of heterogeneity (I² = 96.0%).

“Weight-loss interventions may improve skin disease and quality of life for people with psoriasis and excess weight,” the investigators concluded.

 “Clinicians should consider using these findings to counsel patients and refer them for weight-loss support when appropriate. Future research should bridge the gap between evidence and patient awareness, while addressing clinician hesitancy.”

Morrow S, Hawkins P, Scragg J, et al. Impact of weight-loss interventions on psoriasis severity: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2025; 00: 1–14. 

Mahil SK, McSweeney SM, Smith CH. Does weight loss reduce the severity and incidence of psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis? A Critically Appraised Topic. Br J Dermatol. 2019 Nov;181(5):946-953. doi: 10.1111/bjd.17741. Epub 2019 May 2. PMID: 30729517.

Weight-loss interventions have been shown to improve psoriasis severity and patient quality of life, suggesting their potential inclusion in treatment plans. A systematic review and meta-analysis led by Sarah Morrow examined randomized controlled trials involving weight-loss interventions for psoriasis patients. The study found significant reductions in Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) scores and improvements in Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) scores. The findings highlight the importance of weight management in psoriasis care and suggest that clinicians should consider weight-loss support for patients with excess weight.

In this analysis, investigators assessed the effects of any weight-loss intervention, behavioural or pharmacological, on the severity of psoriasis as well as quality-of-life outcomes.

Weight-Loss Interventions Improve Psoriasis Severity, Quality of Life

Study finds comparable IgE reductions with heated milk and conventional desensitization, but heated milk linked to higher anaphylaxis risk in children with cow’s milk allergy.

Allergy

Allergy condition center page is a comprehensive resource for clinical news and insights on allergic and inflammatory diseases. This page consists of interviews, articles, podcasts, and videos on the research, treatment and development of therapies for food and seasonal allergies, as well as allergic asthma and related conditions.

Heated Milk Desensitization Offers No Clear Advantage Over Raw Milk in Children

Stay updated with the latest healthcare breakthroughs, including FDA news and phase 3 trial readouts, in this week's essential news roundup.

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.

Pulmonology

Infectious Disease condition center page is a comprehensive resource for clinical news and insights on respiratory health. This page consists of interviews, articles, podcasts, and videos on the research, treatment and development of therapies for asthma, COPD, interstitial lung disease, COVID-19, and more.

Hematology

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...

The HCPFive: Top News for Healthcare Providers from the Week of 12/14

Pooja Singhal, MD, is a gastroenterologist, hepatologist, and obesity medicine specialist at Oklahoma Gastro Health and Wellness.

Singhal discusses the multi-pronged impact of the Commission’s definition of obesity and how it effects clinicians, patients, and the treatment structure itself.

Obesity Management

Obesity Management condition center page, resources on the topics of medical news and expert insight into clinical weight management can be found. Content includes articles, interviews, videos, podcasts, and breaking news on obesity research, treatment, and drug development.

Impacts of the Lancet Commission on Obesity Treatment, With Pooja Singhal, MD

This study explored the potential impact of body mass index (BMI) and smoking on patients’ risk of developing hidradenitis suppurativa.

Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Hidradenitis Suppurativa 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 dermatology research, treatment, and drug development.

BMI, Inflammatory Bowel Disease Both Show Causal Effect on HS Development

Abigail Brooks is an assistant managing editor for 

She joined MJH Life Sciences in August 2023 shortly after graduating from Monmouth University where she earned her BA in Communication with a concentration in Public Relations/Journalism and later an MA in Interactive Digital Media. She enjoys traveling, running, and reading books. She can be reached at abrooks@mjhlifesciences.com.

The approval is based on phase 3 SEQUOIA-HCM clinical trial. The full US Prescribing Information includes a Boxed Warning for the risk of heart failure.

Cardiomyopathy

FDA Approves Aficamten (Myqorzo) for Symptomatic Obstructive Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

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.

A cross-sectional study compares renal transplantation with dialysis, highlighting an improved sleep quality in end-stage renal disease.


Chronic Kidney Disease

Renal Transplantation May Lower Sleep Disorder Risk Versus Dialysis

Hanny Al-Samkari, MD, is the Peggy S. Blitz Endowed Chair in hematology and oncology at the Massachusetts General Hospital and an associate professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School.

Videos

Al-Samkari discusses a potentially novel use for bevacizumab in improving outcomes for patients with lesions from non-HHT etiologies.

Conference

 conference coverage page features articles, videos, and expert-led live coverage from major medical meetings throughout the year.

Systemic Bevacizumab Improves Chronic Bleeding from GI Lesions, With Hanny Al-Samkari, MD

The decision makes nerandomilast the first and only PDE4B inhibitor with immunomodulatory and antifibrotic effects approved in this indication.

FDA Approves Nerandomilast (Jascayd) Tablets for Progressive Pulmonary Fibrosis

Patients with gout frequently experience kinesiophobia and central sensitization, which were independently linked to greater pain intensity.

Latest News

FDA Accepts, Grants Priority Review to Veligrotug BLA for Thyroid Eye Disease

Psoriasis in 2025: Year in Review

Daily Lemon Water Lowers Serum Urate Levels in Patients With Hyperuricemia

Type 2 Diabetes in 2025: Year in Review

Weight-Loss Interventions Improve Psoriasis Severity, Quality of Life