Systemic Immunosuppressant Treatments

Biologics

Etanercept (Enbrel), infliximab (Remicade), adalimumab (Humira), ustekinumab (Stelara), golimumab (Simponi), apremilast (Otezla), secukinumab (Cosentyx) and ixekizumab (Taltz).

Since your immune system is the one currently causing psoriasis, these systemic drugs suppress it in order to make the attacks on your own skin cells less severe. By doing so, these treatments also leave your immune system open to other attacks, and it hinders its ability to fight infections.

Biologics specifically are genetically-engineered proteins manufactured using living microorganisms derived from human or animal genes that target specific parts of the immune system.

Many people who take these drugs see an initial period of improvement, followed by a drop in the drug’s effectiveness when the body’s immune system creates antibodies against the drug.

In particular, people taking these treatments must be screened for tuberculosis.

Methotrexate & Cyclosporine

Rheumatrex, Trexall, Rasuvo. Gengraf, Neoral.

Taken as a pill, both methotrexate and cyclosporine, suppress the immune system to reduce inflammation by decreasing the production of skin cells.

Both medications are best when used for short periods of time, as the side effects can be very serious and sometimes life-threatening, including severe liver and kidney damage, and bone marrow problems.

Like other immunosuppressant drugs, these increase your risk of infection and other health problems, including cancer.