Amevive for psoriasis
In 2003, Amevive (alefacept) became the first biologic to get the green light from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treatment of plaque psoriasis. Amevive is marketed by Astellas Pharma US. In clinical trials, after 12 weeks, about one in five patients met the primary benchmark for improvement set by the FDA for psoriasis treatments; that is, a 75% improvement in psoriasis skin symptoms (called PASI 75). After a second course of treatment, that figure rose to about one in three patients.
How is it administered? Amevive is administered in a physician’s office by injection into the muscle once a week for 12 weeks. After a 12-week rest period, patients can receive a second 12-week course of therapy.
Advantages The anti-psoriasis effects of Amevive can last even months after treatment ends, so for those who like the idea of taking treatment “holidays,” Amevive may offer a way to take significant breaks between treatments regimens.
Drawbacks Alefacept works against psoriasis, in part, by reducing the number of T cells in the body; however, if T cell levels drop too low, the body’s ability to fight infection can be seriously impaired. Therefore, doctors recommend regular monitoring of T cell levels in patients receiving alefacept (with a simple blood test every two weeks during treatment), and discontinuation of the medication if they go below a healthy level.
Alefacept is relatively new, and its patient population is limited, so it could have as-yet-undiscovered, serious side effects.
How does it work? Amevive cripples T cells, the immune cells that congregate in areas of active psoriasis and direct the production of many of the inflammatory substances that cause psoriasis symptoms. It binds to T cells and prevents them from interacting with immune system molecules that are necessary for their survival and activity. As a result, T cells are less active and many die.
Payment assistance
The company that markets this treatment is among those that have programs to help people afford their treatments. Learn more here: Psoriasis Prescription Payment Assistance Programs.
[More info: Amevive website.]
[More info: Biologics for psoriasis.]
[More info: Psoriasis Treatments.]
