Berkeley, CA 2/26/2010 6:59:33 AM
Psoriasis Patients Learn about Biologics for Psoriasis Treatment from Their Own Dermatologists
Psoriasis patients can now learn about biologics for psoriasis treatment from their own dermatologist.
Biologics are among the newest treatments for psoriasis. In the last decade, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved five biologics for the treament of plaque psoriasis: Amevive® (alefacept), Enbrel® (etanercept), Humira® (adalimumab), Remicade® (infliximab), and Stelara® (ustekinumab).
A doctor may recommend the use of a biologic for people whose psoriasis is moderate to severe, cannot be controlled effectively with other psoriasis treatments, or cannot tolerate other psoriasis medications because of side effects.
Each biologic medication has it’s own unique mechanism of action, clinical benefits and side effects. Patients can learn more about their treatment options for psoriasis, including biologics, corticosteroids, vitamin D derivatives and phototherapy, on their own dermatologist’s Websites.
Dermatologists enrolled for Vivacare’s “From Your Doctor” patient education service have access to patient handouts that cover a wide range of issues regarding psoriasis, including the different types of psoriasis and various psoriasis treatments, including topical, oral and systemic medications. Dermatologists that use the service can now enhance their own practice Website with in-depth and practical information regarding biologic medications.
Psoriasis is a chronic, skin disorder caused by an underlying problem of the body's immune system. There are five types of psoriasis, each defined by the type of skin lesions that appear. Plaque psoriasis is the most common type, affecting over 80% of people with psoriasis. Other psoriasis types include guttate psoriasis, pustular psoriasis, inverse psoriasis, and erythrodermic psoriasis.
About Vivacare
Vivacare is a patient education company based in Berkeley, California that supports the physician-patient relationship by helping medical professionals share practical health information with their patients, leading to improved clinical care and patient satisfaction.