Psoriatic How I Decided to Treat My Disease With Biologics

How I Decided to Treat My Psoriasis With Biologics

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes red, scaly patches of skin. It can also affect the joints, nails, and scalp. I have been living with psoriasis for over 20 years and have tried various treatments, including topical medications, phototherapy, and oral medications. While these treatments were effective to some extent, they did not provide me with the relief I was looking for.

After years of dealing with the physical and emotional challenges of psoriasis, I decided to explore biologic therapy. Biologics are a type of medication that targets specific parts of the immune system and can help reduce the inflammation and symptoms of psoriasis.

The decision to start biologic therapy was not easy. I was concerned about the potential side effects and the long-term commitment. I spoke with my doctor at length, weighing the risks and benefits and thoroughly understanding how the treatment would work. I also joined online support groups and spoke to other people who were successfully managing their psoriasis with biologics.

After careful consideration, I decided to move forward with biologic therapy. I am so glad that I did. Biologics have significantly improved the quality of my life. My skin is clearer, my joints are less painful, and I have more energy. I can now participate in activities I previously avoided, such as swimming and going to the beach.

I am very grateful for the opportunity to have access to biologic therapy. I feel like I have finally found a treatment that works for me and allows me to live a normal life.

Here are some factors that influenced my decision to start biologic therapy:

- The severity of my psoriasis: My psoriasis was severe and widespread, covering most of my body. It was also affecting my joints and caused significant pain and discomfort.

- The lack of effectiveness of previous treatments: I had tried various treatments, but none of them could provide me with long-term relief.

- My desire to improve my quality of life: Psoriasis was significantly impacting my physical and emotional health. I was looking for a treatment that would allow me to live a more normal life.

Here are some things I considered when choosing a biologic:

- The potential side effects: Biologics can have several side effects, including an increased risk of infection and allergic reactions. I wanted to choose a biologic with a manageable side effect profile.

- The long-term commitment: Biologics are a long-term commitment, and I wanted to ensure I was willing and able to comply with the treatment regimen.

- The cost of treatment: Biologics can be expensive, and I wanted to make sure I could afford the treatment.

After carefully considering all these factors, I decided to start treatment with a biologic called secukinumab (Cosentyx). Secukinumab is an interleukin-17 (IL-17) inhibitor that targets the inflammation in psoriasis. It has been shown to be effective in clearing skin and improving joint pain and stiffness.

Here is my experience with biologic therapy:

I started taking secukinumab in 2020 and have seen a dramatic improvement in my psoriasis. My skin cleared within a few weeks of treatment, and my joint pain significantly decreased. I can now participate in activities that I previously couldn't do, such as running and swimming. I have also noticed a significant improvement in my mental health. I feel more confident and happier now that my psoriasis is under control.

I have experienced some side effects from secukinumab, including an increased risk of infection. I have also developed antibodies to secukinumab, which means the treatment may eventually become less effective. However, I am very grateful for the positive impact that biologics have had on my life and would not hesitate to recommend them to others struggling with psoriasis.

Here are some tips if you are considering biologic therapy:

- Talk to your doctor: Ask your doctor about the benefits and risks of biologic therapy and what to expect during treatment.

- Join a support group: Talking to other people who are living with psoriasis and managing their disease with biologics can provide valuable support and insight.

- Be patient: Biologics can take time to work, so be patient and give the treatment a chance.

- Stay positive: Psoriasis can be a challenging condition to live with, but there is hope. Biologic therapy can significantly improve the quality of life for people with psoriasis.