Biologic medicationrefers to any pop in of medication that is derived from living organisms.
Biologic medication used to treatpsoriasiscomes in injection or infusion form.
Autoimmune conditions produce widespread inflammation throughout the body, causing elevated levels of cytokines, or inflammatory proteins.
Illustration by Zoe Hansen for Verywell Health
How does biological treatment different from other psoriasis medications?
Biologics function differently from systemic drugs (which impact the entire immune system).
Your doctor will then decide if the benefits of taking biologic medication for psoriasis outweigh the potential risks.
Biologic medication is usually well tolerated with few adverse side effects.
Talk to your doctor about all medications, supplements, and vitamins that you currently take.
Some biologic medications, however, are being used off-label for treating psoriasis in children.
TNF- inhibitors are generally safe and effective for managing symptoms of psoriasis in pediatric patients.
For patients with HIV, biologics may be used with caution, but these patients should be closely monitored.
IL-17 inhibitors for the treatment of psoriasis are generally safe for people with latent tuberculosis.
Generally, biologic medications for treating autoimmune conditions involve using antibodies to directly target autoimmune processes to decrease inflammation.
Dosage
Most biologic medications are delivered by injection, which can sometimes be done at home.
The dosage of medication in each syringe or auto-injector will depend on the manufacturer.
All listed dosages are according to the drug manufacturer.
Check your prescription and talk to your doctor to ensure you are taking the right dose.
Modifications
verify to discuss the benefits and risks of taking biologic medication with your doctor.
How to Take and Store
Your biologic medication should be refrigerated before use.
Before you administer your injection, have an alcohol pad and sterile bandage ready.
The frequency of injections depends on the specific throw in of medication that you are prescribed.
Remicade is delivered intravenously through insertion of an IV into a vein and repeated every eight weeks.
It is important to follow your dosing regimen as missed doses can reduce the effectiveness of your biologic medication.
There is always a possibility of an allergic reaction when taking any bang out of medication.
Is Biologic Treatment Right For You?
Biologic medications are expensive, and healthcare providers will usually only prescribe them when other treatments have not worked.
Biologics are typically prescribed based on the amount of skin affected (moderate to severe cases).
However, healthcare providers will also consider a person’s quality of life when making prescription recommendations.
Your doctor will usually prescribe biologics only if steroids and other treatments fail to help.
Biologics are typically injected and it’s possible for you to administer the medication at home.
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