Psoriasis is a chronic--lifelong--autoimmune disease that affects the skin. It occurs when the body's immune system attacks and destroys skin cells. This action makes the skin produce new cells at a very fast pace. The new cells build up on each other and lead to signs of psoriasis such as thick patches of scaly skin. Enbrel is a drug that is used to treat a certain form of psoriasis and it is made by Amgen.
Indication
The National Psoriasis Foundation states that in April 2004, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Enbrel for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults. It is available by prescription only. Plaque psoriasis is a type of psoriasis characterized by thick, red and scaly patches of skin called plaque. For adults to qualify for psoriasis treatment with Enbrel, they must be eligible for systemic or phototherapy psoriasis treatments as well.
Classification
Enbrel by Amgen belongs to a class of drugs called biologics or immunomodulators. According to the Mayo Clinic, biologics are derived from natural materials and work on the immune system. They block interaction between particular cells of the immune system.
How It Works
In plaque psoriasis, the immune system produces excessive amounts of a protein called tumor necrosis factor. High amounts of this protein makes the skin produce a lot of new cells within a short time. Enbrel reduces plaque formation by blocking the action of tumor necrosis factor. This medication can be given as an injection or through intravenous infusion.
Side Effects
According to the Mayo Clinic, Enbrel may suppress the body's immune system. Therefore, it may cause life threatening infections. A common side effect of this drug, if given by injection, is a reaction at the injection site. According to Skin Care Physicians by the American Academy of Dermatology, the reaction may be manifested as swelling, pain, itching or redness at the site. Some other side effects of Enbrel include cough, headache, abdominal pain and dizziness.
Precautions
Before taking Enbrel, patients should tell their doctors about any allergies they have. Also, the doctor needs to know if they are allergic to Enbrel in particular. Patients who have diseases that put them at risk for infection such as diabetes should give this information to their physicians before using Enbrel. A doctor should also be made aware of all other medical conditions before Enbrel therapy begins.
