These TNF-alpha blocking agents cannot cure psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, but they have been proven effective, in varying degrees, at treating the conditions. Some of the biologics work by decreasing the number of cells in the skin and blood. Other biologics work by blocking the activation of the immune cells or by blocking the psoriasis-causing chemicals that are released by them. In either event, they are capable of reducing inflammation and other signs and symptoms. Since biologics target the specific mechanism in the immune system that causes inflammation, they are thought to spare the body from the potentially serious side effects that have been associated with other treatments for psoriatic arthritis.
There are, however, several reasons why biologics are not considered an appropriate treatment for everyone. Firstly, they are given by injection, either at home or in a physician’s office. Secondly, they are prohibitively expensive due to the complexity of their development—the annual costs can be over $12,000.
These drugs have not been proven effective for all patients, and they carry their own set of risks. Short-term side effects include an allergic reaction at the site of the injection, but the long-term effects can be graver. Recent evidence suggests that biologics may increase a patient’s risk for serious infections, such as tuberculosis and cancer, especially of the blood or lymphatic system. For these reasons, care is taken to recommend them for use in patients who have not responded to more conventional treatments or who have experienced side effects as a result of other medications.
