Biologics work differently than other medications. Instead of limiting activities in the entire immune system, they target the specific chemical actions believed to be involved in psoriasis.

Biologic treatments

A biologic is generally prescribed for patients with moderate or severe plaque psoriasis who have not responded to phototherapy. Biologics are made from living organisms and have been developed to treat plaque psoriasis closer to where it starts—the immune system.

Because biologics are proteins and would be digested if taken orally, they must be injected. Some biologics may be self-injected and others must be administered by a doctor.

Biologics: What makes them different?

Biologics work differently than other medications. For example, while oral systemic medications also affect the immune system, they do so in a generalized way. Instead of working to limit activities in the entire immune system, biologics are selective in that they target the specific chemical actions believed to be involved in psoriasis. Learn more about how a biologic works.

What does targeted treatment really mean?

Research has shown that psoriasis develops when certain immune system cells mistakenly send signals to the skin cells telling them to mature and multiply at an abnormally fast rate. The body has no way to shed the skin cells fast enough, and they accumulate on the surface of the skin. With plaque psoriasis, the result is red, raised, scaly or flaky patches or "plaques" of skin.

Some of the immune cells believed to play an important role in the development of plaque psoriasis are T-cells (or white blood cells) and the chemical messengers released by T-cells.

Currently, several biologics are available to treat moderate or severe plaque psoriasis. Some work by interfering with certain T-cell activities, while others work by blocking the activity of certain chemical messengers. All of these drugs are proteins, however each works a little differently to prevent immune system cells from communicating with skin cells.

Is a biologic right for you?

There are a number of biologics either FDA-approved or in development for plaque psoriasis. As with other treatments, their effectiveness varies by individual. Some people may find that one biologic is not effective but a different one is. Find out about a different way to treat plaque psoriasis and ask your dermatologist if it may be right for you.

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Other important information you should know

All medicines have potential side effects and should be used cautiously and under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Because these types of biologics suppress the immune system, they may reduce your ability to fight infection.

Make sure your doctor is aware of any other medications you may be taking.