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Humira – A Prescription for Relief from Severe Cases of Psoriasis

Friday, December 11th, 2009

There is no need to suffer from the red, flaking, burning skin that is associated with plaque psoriasis, or at least so claim the makers of a new medication known as Humira. This product has been placed on the market to help the millions who suffer from this condition find relief in a quick and efficient manner. This medication is designed more for individuals with moderate to severe psoriasis, rather than mild cases that are better treated with moisturizers or other topical cream options. Clinical trials thus far have been promising, with 7 out of 10 in one trial experiencing a significant reduction in affected parts of the body.

Humira works within the body by blocking a certain protein known as tumor necrosis factor (TNF), the proliferation of which can lead to the excess cells being created in the skin and the corresponding symptoms that we classify as psoriasis. By blocking this process, it promises to stop the excess production of flaky skin scales. Carefully formulated by scientists, Humira has long since been causing a “buzz” in the psoriasis world, especially as it gains endorsements from respected medical professionals and other researchers.

One deterrent for some patients is the fact that Humira psoriasis medication needs to be injected under the skin. This can be done in the comfort of one’s home, but still the thought of using needles and administering injections to oneself can seem like an extremely daunting task to some, and may prevent those who would prefer oral or topical medication options instead.

Another factor is the risk of side effects, some of which can be very severe. The use of Humira has been linked to tuberculosis, a potentially fatal disease in some people. While this is far from common, it is worth taking into consideration.

As with all prescription medications or other injected materials, it is best to follow all guidance given by your doctor (Humira is available by prescription only in any case).  A dermatologist will be able to tell you whether Humira would be a good option for your particular case of psoriasis.

Again, for more mild cases, it may be better to avoid the risk of the sometimes serious side effects and use a simple steroid cream instead, or soothing botanicals such as aloe vera. Many times, the combination of all of these possibilities, in conjunction with an improved diet and moisturizing regimen, can work wonders.

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Biological Psoriasis Meds an Example of Rising Health Care Costs

Friday, October 23rd, 2009

On my way to work today I heard a story on NPR’s Morning Edition about some deals that the Obama administration and Washington in general is trying to hammer out with major health companies, in particular with PhRMA (pronounced “pharma”), aimed at bringing down health care costs.

A woman with psoriatic arthritis was interviewed briefly to discuss the amazing, improving effect that biologics have had on her condition, all the while draining her health benefits dry every year, down to the last cent.  The name of the biologic she is taking wasn’t mentioned, but she said that each prescription refill costs about $2,000, which is expensive.  But, without it, she wouldn’t be able to walk.   I suspect that the biologic she is taking is Humira.

The point of the story was to juxtapose the amazing benefits of these new “wonder drugs” with the astronomical cost they incur for research and development.  Of course, this cost is eventually passed on to the patient (or the insurance company who picks up the tab).

Such extreme cost make these drugs harder to come by, especially for those with less than stellar health insurance.  In light of this dilemma the Obama administration and other forces in Washington have attempted to strike a deal with major drug companies that is supposed to bring down the cost of health care over the next 10 years by 2 trillion dollars.   I say “supposed to” because this depends on drug companies voluntarily not making as much profit as they otherwise could.  In return for their kindhearted generosity, the government will extend these companies’ exclusive rights to sell expensive biotech drugs (like the one mentioned above) by another 12 years.  This means that there won’t be any less expensive, generic versions of the drugs to compete, thus keeping the cost as high as possible for the next 12 years.

The problem here is that, if drug companies are smart enough to invent space-age biotech drugs, then they’re probably smart enough to do basic financial planning that would leave them coming out on top over the next 10-12 years.   One can only imagine how much they plan on making if they are willing to concede 2 trillion dollars.

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Is the Swine Flu (H1N1) Vaccine Safe for People Suffering from Psoriasis?

Wednesday, October 21st, 2009

Would it be dangerous for a person with psoriasis to take a Swine Flu (H1N1) shot?

You should ask your doctor whether taking the Swine Flu vaccine would clash with your current psoriasis medications, especially if you are taking immunosuppressants such as Humira or Enbrel.  Immunosuppressants can be very effective at clearing up moderate to severe psoriasis since they inhibit the body’s defenses from over-reacting (thus preventing scaling, irritation and swelling), but this inhibition can make the body vulnerable to other infections.

If you’re pressed for time try calling a nurse / medical professional hot-line if your insurance company provided you with one (I know Blue Cross does this).  You can also call the National Psoriasis Foundation at 503-244-7404 or 800-723-9166 (phone numbers from their website).

Any medication, including supplements, could potentially react badly when another medication is thrown into the mix.  A vaccination is not a medication per se, but it is designed to change some of the body’s fundamental chemistry and can cause minor side effects while the immune system is acclimating to the shot.

Would the Swine Flu itself cause your psoriasis to flare up?

Anything that detracts from your immune system can potentially lead to a psoriasis flare-up.  Holistic therapies that seek to make the body better equipped to fight off psoriasis using natural means depend on the immune system doing its natural job.  Thus, a slight handicapped, or preoccupied defense system in the body might give the psoriasis disease the opening it needs to break out again.

Some of the more notorious psoriasis agitators:

  • Retroviruses such as HIV, which break down the immune system.
  • Bacteria such as strep throat (streptococcus pyogenes)
  • Fungi, in particular Malassezia, which is best known for causing itching and dandruff.

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The Humira Injection Pen

Tuesday, October 20th, 2009

As a supplement to my last post about Humira, here is a video of a guy using a Humira injector pen.

The Humira Injection Pen is a custom, disposable device that was created by the makers of Humira to make at-home injections as simple as possible.  The following video demonstrates the fact that, while the device is easy to use, it is not painless.

Posted in Psoriasis | 2 Responses »

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