Psoriatic diseaseis an autoimmune condition that includes psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis (PsA).
These medications are designed to slow or stop joint damage, inflammation, and progression of psoriatic disease.
What Are Biologics?
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Biologics work by mimicking substances naturally made by your immune system.
Most biologics for psoriatic disease are given byself-injection.
It is also one of the safest arthritis drugs, although there are misconceptions that it is highly toxic.
They are not considered a first-line treatment because of their cost and side effects.
While biologics are usually prescribed with a DMARD, they can also be prescribed alone.
Biologic drugs can counter the effects of these substances by inhibiting or inactivating them.
Biologics can also treat psoriasis symptoms and work well to treat the condition.
They block TNF proteins and interleukins and bind to proteins that cause inflammation.
They also curb T-cellsa form of white blood cellswhich facilitate the production ofpsoriasis plaques.
When these processes are short-circuited, inflammation is eased and there is less growth of thick, scaly skin.
Research has shown biologics are good at treating psoriasis, especially those that target IL-17- and IL-23 proteins.
Biologics are typically given by injection and tend to work quickly to relieve inflammation and other psoriatic disease symptoms.
Xeljanz (tofacitinib) is the only oral biologic approved by the FDA to treat PsA.
A common side effect of injectable medications is skin reactions at the injection site.
Additionally, patients with HIV can develop severe psoriasis.
Therefore, it is important to screen for HIV before starting biologic therapy in patients with psoriasis.
They slow down or normalize excessive skin cell growth and reduce skin inflammation.
Phototherapy, also called light therapy, which exposes skin to ultraviolent light under medical supervision.
Exposure needs to be consistent to penetrate skin and slow skin cell growth.
This is because photosensitivity is a side of effect of these medications.
A Word From Verywell
Biologics are recommended for people living with moderate-to-severe psoriatic disease.
Some individuals, however, are not ideal candidates for these treatments.
The costs of these drugs may also be a barrier for some people.
Your healthcare providers office should have information about patient assistance programs if the cost is a problem.
It is also important to be aware of side effects that require immediate medical attention.
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