What is Biologic Therapy?

Biologics are a newer type of medication used to treat inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. They work to target over-active areas of your immune system, curbing inflammation in the body. There are different types of biologics, with the most common type being TNF biologics. TNF (tumor necrosis factor) biologics, also known as “anti-TNF” medications, suppress TNF in the body which causes inflammation. Other types of biologics target other proteins in the immune system known as “interleukins” and also help to limit inflammatory skin conditions. Biologics can help to lessen symptoms and increase remission lengths of inflammatory skin conditions for an improvement in quality of life.

Biologic Therapy Options for Inflammatory Skin Conditions

There are a large number of biologics available to help improve the symptoms of inflammatory skin conditions. They are administered either as an intravenous infusion or an injection. These include:

Biologic Therapy for Psoriasis

  • Infliximab (Remicade)
  • Adalimumab (Humira)
  • Etanercept (Enbrel)
  • Ustekinumab (Stelara)
  • Ixekizumab (Taltz)
  • Secukinumab (Cosentyx)
  • Guselkumab (Tremfya)
  • Brodalumab (Siliq)
  • Certolizumab pegol (Cimzia)
  • Tildrakizumab (Ilumya)
  • Risankizumab (Skyrizi)
  • Secukinumab (Cosentyx)

Some of these therapies also help people improve Psoriatic Arthritis if needed.  This need will be considered at the time of your prescription.  

Biologic Therapy for Eczema

  • Dupilumab (Dupixent)

Dr. Beach will work with you to determine which biologic treatment is best for your lifestyle. 

Who is a Good Candidate for Biologic Therapy?

Those who have not seen results from traditional treatments and have inflammatory skin conditions that cause discomfort or pain can often benefit from biologic therapy. Ideal candidates are overall healthy with realistic expectations when it comes to the results of their treatment. Those who have an active infection, whose immune system is significantly compromised, are undergoing vaccinations with live vaccines such as shingles, MMR, or flu mist, or are pregnant or nursing may not receive biologic therapy.

Be sure to share medical history, possible allergies, and other health conditions with Dr. Beach during your consultation so she can safely prescribe your biologic therapy. 

Biologic Therapy Results

After regular use of biologic therapy, patients report improvement in the physical appearance of their skin condition, as well as improvement in symptoms and discomfort. Be sure to follow Dr. Beach’s instructions on how to take your biologic for the best possible results. 

Because biologics alter the immune system, patients can have an increased risk of minor infections when taking them. While most are mild such as a sinus infection or a cold, it is important to see a doctor if you are feeling unwell to be assessed and treat potential illness or infection early on. 

Contact Us Today

If you are looking for an effective treatment option for your inflammatory skin conditions, biologic therapy may be able to help. Do not hesitate to contact DermAtelier on Avenue today to discuss how to schedule your consultation with us. We understand that choosing to receive biologic therapy is a big step, which is why we will work with you every step of the way to ensure that you are completely comfortable with your choice.



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