Psoriasis Treatment Breakthrough: How Biological Agents Are Changing The Game

The main symptoms of psoriasis are red rashes and dandruff on the body for patients, the sooner the better, of course, so that they do not cause serious physical and mental discomfort. For patients with moderate to severe disease, there are now biologic agents that can focus on inhibiting inflammatory factors. Some doctors remind patients that, in addition to using effective drugs, treatment compliance and weight control are also very important to stabilize the condition.

Psoriasis is a chronic skin inflammation. Dermatologist Chen Yong says that psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that affects not only the skin, but also other organs, including joints and eyes in the long run, it increases the risk of diabetes and high blood pressure, presenting major health risks.

Biological agents inhibit inflammatory factors

This is why it is so important for people with psoriasis to get treatment as early as possible. However, the treatment of the condition has not been very effective in the past. For example, patients with mild disease can use topical drugs such as steroids, but cannot continue to use high-strength ointments; seriously ill patients may use drugs that suppress the immune system by indiscriminately suppressing the immune system, may affect liver and kidney function and resistance, and may not this is the best treatment option.

With the emergence of biological agents, this therapeutic limitation is gradually broken. Dr. Chen said that biologics can specifically inhibit inflammatory factors, have better efficacy, and have lower risks of affecting other organs in the body. Therefore, about 80 % of patients improved their symptoms by more than 90% after receiving an injection.

The speed of onset of effect is a consideration for patients

Biologic agents for the treatment of psoriasis include anti-tumor necrosis factor inhibitors, interleukin 17 (IL-17) and 23 (IL-23). Dr. Chen pointed out that anti-tumor necrosis factor biologics may not be suitable for patients with heart failure and brain diseases. In contrast, interleukin inhibitors are suitable for patients with different conditions. Doctors will consider the patient’s own condition, comorbid characteristics and financial ability when formulating treatment plans to choose the most appropriate drug.

Dr. Chen pointed out that after a man was infected with COVID-19, his psoriasis recurred, and his skin became covered with a red rash and felt itchy within a short period of symptoms. . The attending physician assessed his condition and prescribed a fast-acting interleukin inhibitor 17 biological agent to suppress inflammation as quickly as possible.

Dr. Chen explained that interleukin 17 inhibitor has a very fast onset of action, and good results can be achieved about a month after taking the drug. However, he reminded patients that they should follow the doctor’s instructions and take medication regularly: “If the medication is stopped suddenly, it is expected that the symptoms will appear – again. .”

In addition, Dr. Chen also suggested that patients with psoriasis should control their weight, as obesity may release more inflammatory factors, making the disease more difficult to control.

Dr. Chen reminds patients that there are different treatment options for psoriasis, each with its own effectiveness and side effects. Patients should consult with their doctor to choose the most appropriate treatment option for them.