Each of these injectable drugs works differently but ultimately dampens the overactive immune response that triggerspsoriasisandpsoriatic arthritissymptoms.
It also provides step-by-step instructions on how to give yourself a psoriasis injection.
Recommended Dosages
Methotrexate may be given at a single consistent dose.
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The dosage of the drug is described in milligrams (mg).
A methotrexate dose can be adjusted up or down as needed to clear skin plaques with minimal side effects.
It takes about a month before you will see and feel the effects of treatment.
Administration
Methotrexate is usually given by mouth but may be given by weekly injection.
These drugs suppress facets of the immune response, rather than the immune system as a whole.
If there is no improvement in your symptoms after 12 to 16 weeks, the treatment is generally stopped.
How Effective Are Biologic Drugs?
Each biologic has different preparation and dosing instructions.
Yourrheumatologistwill walk you through what to do, but you should also read the package instructions to avoid errors.
Most biologics require a loading dose followed by the recommended therapeutic dose.
All of the biologics approved for the treatment of psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis are delivered by subcutaneous injection.
These are given in areas where the skin can be pinched, such as the abdomen or thigh.
To prevent scarring, change the location of the subcutaneous injection site with every shot.
The choice and dose of steroid should be directed by a qualifieddermatologistor rheumatologist.
As a general rule, the lowest possible dose is given to handle the symptoms.
Steroid injections are typically delivered byintramuscular injection(into a large muscle like the buttocks).
Steroid shots are not self-administered but are rather given by a healthcare provider.
The injection procedure is essentially the same for each.
The only difference is that a syringe has a plunger that you depress after the needle is inserted.
Your healthcare provider will carefully inject a corticosteroid directly under the skin of your rash.
Corticosteroids can help to stop the itching and clear up psoriasis plaques.
The effects of corticosteroids last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.
Once the shot wears off, however, the rash may return.
Side effects of psoriasis injections range from mild skin irritation at the injection site to more severe systemic reactions.
Some people experience flu-like symptoms for a few days after a shot.
Fatigue is a common side effect of biologics that may last throughout the treatment.
