Psoriasis Experts Discuss New Psoriasis Treatments

The 2009 Fall Clinical Dermatology Conference convened October 15-18 in Las Vegas where psoriasis experts, such as Mark Lebwohl, M.D. and Alice Gottlieb, M.D. provided clinical updates on psoriasis management, including the use of topical medications (corticosteroids, Vectical) and biologics, such as the TNF Inhibitors (Amevive, Enbrel, Humira, Remicade) and a new biologic, Stelara, that blocks IL-12 and IL-23 that are associated with inflammation the the overgrowth of skin cells.

Some of the key points discussed included the importance for dermatologists to inquire about symptoms of psoriatic arthritis. Given the risk that long-term disability that may be caused by psoriatic arthritis, it is critical that any psoriasis therapy for a patient with arthritic symptoms, also help to minimize joint damage.

Stelara, New Biologic for Psoriasis, Offers Efficacy and Convenience

Stelara (ustekinumab) is a new "biologic" medication that was recently approved by the FDA for the treatment of moderate to severe psoriasis in adults.

Stelara is given twice in the first month, followed by dosing just four times per year. The relatively long duration of relief between treatments (only 5 doses per year) is one of the benefits of Stelara that psoriasis patients will appreciate.

Stelara (ustekinumab) has a unique mechanism of action. It blocks IL-12 and IL-23, immune-system proteins linked to inflammation and rapid skin cell growth which are the precursors to psoriasis lesions. Other biologic medications, such as Humira and Remicade block different components of the immune system, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF).

Three clinical studies of 2,266 psoriasis patients showed Stelara to be safe and effective for the treatment of moderate to severe psoriasis.

Unlike some biologic medications that may be self-injected at home, Stelara should be administered by a medical professional.