Systemic lupus erythematosus (shortened to SLE) is a long-term autoimmune condition that affects many parts of the body, including the skin, joints, and internal organs. People living with SLE may experience different symptoms that can negatively affect quality of life. Only a few medicines that help control SLE symptoms are available, but they can result in unwanted side effects and may not improve all symptoms.

Two studies, POETYK SLE-1 and POETYK SLE-2, are currently testing the drug deucravacitinib, which is a pill taken by mouth. Deucravacitinib works differently than other available medicines by targeting a specific protein that plays an essential role in the body’s immune response; this could provide symptom relief, with fewer side effects. Deucravacitinib has been tested and approved for use in adults with psoriasis. Deucravacitinib has also been tested in adults with psoriatic arthritis with positive outcomes, and a study in a smaller group of adults with SLE has also shown benefits.

This paper describes the way deucravacitinib is being tested in POETYK SLE-1 and POETYK SLE-2, which will include a larger number of adults with SLE. These studies will take place all over the world, and individual participation in the main period of the study will last 1 year.

The participants in these studies will have the option to continue the study for 2 more years, for a total of about 3 years. Results will help doctors and scientists understand if deucravacitinib can improve symptoms in adults with SLE in a safe and effective way.