Some of the most important treatment options for psoriasis come from biology: drugs made from human or animal proteins that are designed to inhibit immune system defects which are linked to the disease.
There are four so-called biologic agents that are Food and Drug Administration approved for treating either psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis: All of them are expensive. Biologic agents usually cost $1,000 a month or more, but the cost is generally covered by insurance (some companies may require special authorization in advance.) The four biologic drugs include:
Amevive (alefacept)
—Alefacept is approved for use in moderate to severe chronic plaque psoriasis. It works by inhibiting the action of T cells, which are cells that promote inflammation. Because the medication must be injected into the muscle, treatment involves weekly visits to a doctor's office for 12 weeks. Some patients need a second course of treatment.
Possible side effects include a reduction in the number of white blood cells, an increased risk of cancer and the development of hives on the skin. Liver injury and allergic reactions are possible. Alefacept should not be used in combination with light treatments or with other agents that suppress the immune system.
Raptiva (efalizumab)
—Like alefacept, efalizumab is approved for use in moderate to severe chronic plaque psoriasis and works by inhibiting the action of T cells. Because the medication is injected just under the skin, patients are able to give t...
Copyright 2009 NBC Health
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