Bimekizumab safety in moderate to severe plaque psoriasis: Rates of hepatic events and changes in liver parameters over 2 years in randomized phase 3/3b trials

Background: Patients with psoriasis are at increased risk of liver function abnormalities. Objective: Explore rates of hepatic treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) and changes in liver parameters in bimekizumab-treated patients with psoriasis. Methods: Data are reported from 5 phase 3/3b trials over 2 years. Hepatic TEAEs, laboratory elevations in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) or aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and changes in clinical markers of liver fibrosis (Fibrosis-4 [FIB-4] Index and AST to Platelet Ratio Index [APRI]) are reported. TEAEs are presented using exposure-adjusted incidence rates (EAIRs) per 100 patient-years (PY). Results: 2186 patients received ≥1 bimekizumab dose. Over 2 years, the EAIR of hepatic TEAEs was 3.5/100 PY and did not increase from first to second year. 2-year EAIRs of ALT/AST elevations >3x and >5x the upper limit of normal were 2.3 and 0.6/100 PY; rates were similar to placebo, adalimumab, secukinumab, and ustekinumab during controlled study periods. FIB-4 and APRI scores did not increase through 2 years, regardless of fibrosis risk at baseline. Limitations: Obesity, diabetes, dyslipidemia, chronic alcohol consumption, and medication changes are confounding factors for hepatic dysfunction. Conclusion: Rates of hepatic adverse events (AEs) with bimekizumab were consistent through 2 years; incidences of transaminase elevations were similar to comparators during phase 3/3b controlled study periods.