Breaking Down the Mechanisms of Action of Oral Psoriasis Therapies

Panelists discuss how the unique mechanisms of deucravacitinib and apremilast influence efficacy, safety, and tolerability. Deucravacitinib, a selective TYK2 inhibitor, modulates key cytokine pathways involved in inflammation, while apremilast acts as a PDE4 inhibitor to downregulate proinflammatory mediators. Both pathways target immune dysregulation but through distinct intracellular signaling routes.

Panelists discuss how understanding these mechanisms allows clinicians to better match therapy to patient phenotype and comorbidities. Deucravacitinib’s targeted action on TYK2 offers potential for higher efficacy and sustained response, while apremilast’s broader immunomodulatory approach provides flexibility for patients needing milder interventions.

Panelists discuss how mechanistic differentiation underpins clinical positioning: deucravacitinib may suit patients needing stronger disease control, whereas apremilast remains a well-tolerated, low-monitoring option. Together, they broaden the range of oral strategies in psoriasis management.