Psoriasis is a skin condition in which the immune cells attack the cells of the skin, resulting in the rapid division of the skin cells. One form of psoriasis treatment is known as biologics.
Mechanism
Biologics are treatments for psoriasis that work on blocking specific portions of the immune response that triggers the division of the skin cells, the National Psoriasis Foundation explains. By blocking only parts of the immune system, these medications can help suppress the process that causes psoriasis without impairing the immune system throughout the body.
Administration
Biologic treatments for psoriasis include the medications infliximab, etanercept and alefacept, the Mayo Clinic explains. These medications must all be given by injection, though the injection may need to be into a muscle, into fat tissue in the body or just under the skin, depending on the medication.
Side Effects
Biologic treatments for psoriasis are designed to interfere with aspects of the immune system. They can cause localized swelling and inflammation at the injection site and can also make patients more likely to develop certain types of infections, such as upper respiratory viral infections.
