Psoriasis is a condition in which the immune system attacks the skin cells. This causes the skin cells to divide very rapidly, leading to the development of raised areas of the skin. Some cases of psoriasis can be treated with injections.
Biologics
Biologics are treatments for psoriasis that are able to block some of the chemical signals that trigger the immune reaction that leads to the condition. Examples of these medications include etanercept, alefacept, infliximab and adalimumab, the American Academy of Dermatology explains. Corticosteroids can also be injected into psoriasis plaques to reduce their appearance.
Administration
Patients who are receiving some psoriasis injections, such as corticosteroids and alefacept, need to be administered by a doctor. This is because the medication must be precisely delivered deep into large muscles of the body to be effective. Other medications can be administered by the patient once he has been properly trained, as the medication only needs to be placed under the skin.
Risks
Some injections for psoriasis, such as etanercept, can weaken the immune system, Medline Plus explains. This can increase the risk of developing several different kinds of infections, including tuberculosis.
