INTRODUCTION: Interleukin (IL)-17 is critical in the pathogenesis of psoriasis 
and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) with most data suggesting that IL-17A alone was 
the key cytokine. However, in vitro and in vivo studies have suggested dual 
blockade of IL-17A and IL-17 F may be more effective than IL-17 A blockade 
alone. Bimekizumab is the first human monoclonal antibody to exert simultaneous 
specific inhibition of IL-17A and IL-17 F, and has been studied in several phase 
II/III trials for psoriasis and PsA.
AREAS COVERED: Bimekizumab is not currently licensed for use. A literature 
search identified clinical trials examining the efficacy and safety of 
bimekizumab for psoriasis and PsA, and these were critically appraised.
EXPERT OPINION: Clinical trials of bimekizumab have been promising, 
demonstrating a rapid onset of response and superior efficacy compared to three 
currently licensed biologics: secukinumab, ustekinumab, and adalimumab. 
Bimekizumab maintains a high level of efficacy with maintenance dosing intervals 
of 8 weeks, compared with 4 weeks for currently licensed IL-17A antagonists. No 
unexpected adverse events have been identified, although mild-to-moderate fungal 
infections occur in approximately 10%. Studies over longer time periods 
involving additional active comparators would be valuable in further defining 
the role of bimekizumab amongst currently available treatments.