NCT07228390 · Pfizer
A 16-Week Study to Learn About the Study Medicine Called Ritlecitinib in Adults With Long Lasting Painful Red Skin Lumps, Known by the Medical Term, Hidradenitis Suppurativa, or HS.
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to learn about the safety and effects of the study medicine (called Ritlecitinib) for the possible treatment of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). HS is a disease causing long lasting painful red skin lumps.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to learn about the safety and effects of the study medicine (called Ritlecitinib) for the possible treatment of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). HS is a disease causing long lasting painful red skin lumps. This study is seeking participants who: * have moderate or severe HS * have previously received antibiotics for HS that did not help, or could not tolerate antibiotics Participants will be randomly (like a flip of coin) assigned to receive either the study medicine or a placebo (a pill that looks like the study medicine but does not contain any medicine). The study medicine or placebo will be taken by mouth once daily at home. For the first part of the study, participants will receive a loading (starting) dose. For the next part of the study, participants will receive a maintenance (ongoing) dose. Participants will take part in the study for about 24 weeks (about 6 months). There will be about 10 study clinic visits: a screening visit, Day 1, and then every 1, 2, or 4 weeks until week 16. At each visit, participants will report on their health and have tests such as physical exams, blood and urine tests, vital signs, chest X-rays, ECGs, hearing tests, and questionnaires. Participants will record when they take the study medicine and their HS symptoms every day in an eDiary on a mobile phone. The experiences of participants receiving the study medicine will be compared to those receiving placebo to help see if the study medicine is safe and effective.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Male or female participants ≥18 to ≤75 years of age.
- Participants with a diagnosis (based on clinical history and physical examination) of moderate to severe HS for at least 6 months prior to Screening Visit and inadequate response to at least 4-week (28 days) treatment with oral antibiotics for the treatment of HS.
Exclusion criteria
- Presence of ≥20 draining fistulae at Screening or BL visit
- Evidence of other active skin disease or condition at screening
- Have a known immunodeficiency disorder
- Having a history of systemic infection requiring hospitalization or parenteral therapy, including history of infection with Mycobacterium TB
- Specific Viral Infection History (incl. history of herpes zoster, HBV or HCV Infection
- Current or recent history of clinically significant severe, progressive, or uncontrolled other medical conditions
- Any medical or psychiatric condition including any active suicidal ideation in the past year or suicidal behavior in the past 5 years
Where
- Phoenix, Arizona
- Scottsdale, Arizona
- Hot Springs, Arkansas
- Fountain Valley, California
- La Habra, California
- Northridge, California
- Sacramento, California
- Santa Ana, California
- Boca Raton, Florida
- Largo, Florida
- North Miami Beach, Florida
- Tamarac, Florida
And 19 more locations — see the full list below.
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jul 9, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations