Stelara’s aggressive protection may indicate J&J’s immunological strategy

During its presentation at the JP Morgan Healthcare Conference 2025, Johnson and Johnson (J&J) suggested that it will take an aggressive strategic approach in the immunological space for the coming year. While speaking at the conference, J&J CEO Joaquin Duato indicated the company’s desire to protect Stelara, its anti-interleukin (IL)-12/23 biologic brand, against sales erosion from the pending launches of less expensive biosimilars. The company expects an erosion curve similar to the relatively slow loss of market share and revenue shown by AbbVie’s blockbuster adalimumab therapy, Humira.

The launch of cheaper adalimumab biosimilars in the US market in early 2023 did not result in the expected sharp drop in Humira’s revenue or market share size. AbbVie’s ability to maintain its position and delay its loss of the adalimumab market has been attributed to its patient reimbursement programs and delays in the adoption of competitors’ adalimumab biosimilars by drug managers. pharmacy benefits (PBM). J&J’s suggestion of similar aggressive positioning for Stelara may be representative of the company’s overall strategy in the immunology space.

Vigorous protection of Stelara’s position in the immunology market aligns with a strategy to grow in the space. During the presentation, Duato also indicated the company’s excitement for Tremfya’s anticipated growth in the inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) market, with the 2024 approval of the anti-IL-23 biologic in the ulcerative colitis and a planned approval of therapy for Crohn’s disease. . Duato also said the company sees the future entry of its active orally administered IL-23 in development, JNJ-2113, as a significant market disruptor. J&J’s aggressive stance with Stelara can be seen as a stop-gap against the growth of IL-12/23 biosimilars, allowing opportunities for Tremfya to gain ground in the immunology space, as well as make way for the launch of the oral candidate.

Duato also highlighted the oral route of administration of JNJ-2113 as a favorable option for patients on intravenous or subcutaneous biologics. His reference to the therapy as an efficacy similar to current biologics implies that the drug will be positioned as a viable and preferable option for patients in the anti-IL-23 space, but not as a new therapy more effective.

“Stelara’s Aggressive Protection May Point to J&J’s Immunology Strategy” was originally created and published by Pharmaceutical Technologya trademark owned by GlobalData.

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