Introduction

At the groundbreaking 2025 American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Annual Meeting, compelling new two-year data revealed that bimekizumab (known as Bimzelx) is making waves as an effective treatment for moderate-to-severe hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). This therapy not only offers sustained disease control but also shows promise in preventing long-term tissue damage associated with the condition.

Insights from Dr. Christopher J. Sayed

During an insightful interview, Dr. Christopher J. Sayed, a leading investigator of the BE HEARD trial and esteemed professor at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine, elaborated on the significance of these findings. The BE HEARD studies have assessed bimekizumab’s role as a selective inhibitor of both interleukin (IL)-17A and IL-17F, cytokines that are pivotal in the inflammatory process of HS.

The Revolutionary Dual Action of Bimekizumab

Dr. Sayed expressed his excitement about the dual action of bimekizumab: “This is truly revolutionary because it’s the first approved IL-17 agent that inhibits both IL-17A and IL-17F. While IL-17A has been recognized for its role in inflammation, IL-17F was somewhat overlooked. However, recent research indicates that IL-17F is also present in significant amounts, and merely targeting IL-17A may not suffice for optimal treatment. A complete blockade, therefore, could lead to improved clinical outcomes for patients.”

FDA Approval and Patient Impact

The positive results from the BE HEARD studies further bolster the FDA's decision to approve bimekizumab in November 2024 for adults suffering from moderate-to-severe HS, addressing a significant unmet need in this patient population.

Addressing Unmet Needs in HS Treatment

Dr. Sayed addressed the drug’s potential to fulfill unmet needs: “There are currently two other approved treatments, both of which can benefit certain patients. However, bimekizumab stands out due to the depth of response it offers. It has shown markedly higher percentages of patients achieving significant response scores, with many patients reporting scores as high as 75%, 90%, or even complete resolution (100%). In contrast, existing therapies like adalimumab typically produce these levels of response in only about 25% of patients over time, and likely even less than that in reality. Hence, the arrival of a treatment like bimekizumab is a huge milestone for patients seeking effective management of their HS symptoms.”

Conclusion and Future Prospects

As researchers and medical professionals reflect on these groundbreaking findings, the hope is that bimekizumab will pave the way for better long-term outcomes for those affected by hidradenitis suppurativa, truly transforming the landscape of treatment.

Further Insights

To delve deeper into this cutting-edge discussion, watch Dr. Sayed’s full interview at the AAD 2025 conference, where further insights and expert opinions were shared. This latest breakthrough could well mark a new era for HS patients, sparking expectations for even more advances in dermatological care.