Biologics

Biologics are the beginning of a changing paradigm in the treatment of chronic conditions like psoriasis. These therapies were designed to provide improved efficacy to address the safety concerns associated with traditional systemic therapies.

An Effective Alternative for a Chronic Condition

Psoriasis is a chronic condition that traditionally requires a lifetime of treatment for symptom relief. The ideal therapeutic option is one that provides efficacy, long-term safety, and significant convenience. Prior to the introduction of biologic therapies, systemic and topical options offered effective treatment, but varied both in terms of long-term safety and patient ease of use. For example, while oral medications such as cyclosporine or methotrexate offer proven efficacy and the convenience of being taken at home, the long-term safety remains a concern. Similarly, the use of phototherapy has been established as effective treatment, but the need for multiple sessions per week can be inconvenient and may have a negative impact on compliance. It is for these reasons that the advent of biologic therapy for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis has been so exciting.

For more information about RAPTIVA for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, see RAPTIVA and Plaque Psoriasis.