The South West’s premier independent dermatology & skin clinic
Advances in treatment over the last 20 years has led to the development of antibody and small molecule medications which are very effective and with fewer side-effect or contra-indications to taking. Effective also in those that have tried and failed to respond to older traditional treatments and with the added advantage of treating Psoriatic Arthritis.
South West Dermatology are able to offer biological treatment for psoriasis. Dr. Anthony Downs has over 20 years experience in prescribing biologics for patients with moderate to severe psoriasis.
He has contributed to global clinical trials that have led to these medicines being licenced and continues to be active in clinical research in this field of medicine.
The price of these medications reflects the cost of their complex development over many years and the significant improvement in quality of life achieved from returning to normal skin.
There are no psoriasis treatments that can cure. Any medication must be taken or used continuously or the psoriasis skin patches eventually return.
| Medication | How it works | How it is given | Speed of action | Unsuitable patients | Common side-effects | Pre-treatment tests | Cost per month after loading doses* |
| Taltz® | IL-17 inhibitor | 80mg monthly with self-injector. 160mg loading dose | Within 12 weeks | Inflammatory bowel disease, pregnancy or breast feeding, active TB, avoid live vaccines | Candida and fungal infections. Allergic reactions | Blood tests and chest Xray | £780 |
| Ilumetri® | IL-23 inhibitor | 100 or 200mg with self-injector. Second loading dose after 4 weeks then every 12 weeks | Within 28 weeks | Pregnancy or breast feeding, active TB, avoid live vaccines | none | Blood tests and chest Xray | £720 |
*Approximate 2023 prices. Includes cold chain home delivery. Excludes initial and expected on-going face-to face or video consultation fees and any blood tests or additional investigations required. Please note routine monitoring blood tests are not required for either medication.
If you feel this is the type of medication for you, then book in a consultation with Dr Anthony Downs. For patients outside the south west area Dr Downs is able to offer remote video consultations.
Please note your private medical insurance may not cover costs of medication or ongoing consultations for chronic medical conditions.
