FDA panel backs ustekinumab for treating psoriasis

Silver Springs, Md.

- An Food and Drug Administration (FDA) panel ruled Johnson & Johnson's experimental drug, ustekinumab, should be approved for treating moderate to severe psoriasis in adults, Reuters reports.

Panel members unanimously agreed that the drug's potential to relieve symptoms of psoriasis outweighed concerns that long-term use could increase the risk of cancer.

The FDA will consider advice from the panel before making a final decision in September.