Taltz (Ixekizumab) treatment for Psoriasis

Taltz (ixekizumab) is a biologic medication that is used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults and children 6 years of age and older. It is also used to treat psoriatic arthritis in adults. Taltz works by blocking a protein called interleukin-17A (IL-17A), which plays a role in the inflammation that causes psoriasis.

How does Taltz work?

Taltz is a biologic medication, which means it is made from living cells. It is a monoclonal antibody that targets IL-17A, a protein that plays a role in the inflammation that causes psoriasis. By blocking IL-17A, Taltz helps to reduce inflammation and clear up psoriasis plaques.

How is Taltz taken?

Taltz is given as a subcutaneous injection. You can give yourself the injection at home after you have been trained by your doctor or nurse. The injection is given once every 4 weeks.

What are the side effects of Taltz?

Taltz can cause some side effects, including:

• Infections
• Infusion reactions
• Headache
• Upper respiratory tract infection
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Rash
• Pain at the injection site

Is Taltz safe?

Taltz is generally safe, but it is important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of treatment before you start taking it. Taltz can increase your risk of serious infections, including tuberculosis and infections caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It is important to tell your doctor if you have any history of infections before you start taking Taltz.

Is Taltz effective?

Taltz is a very effective treatment for psoriasis. In clinical trials, up to 90% of patients who took Taltz saw a significant improvement in their psoriasis plaques at 12 weeks. Four out of 10 patients achieved completely clear skin at 12 weeks.

If you are considering using Taltz to treat psoriasis get in touch with us today. 

*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 this 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.

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.

Call Sarah on 01392 350059 to book a biologic psoriasis consultation with our Consultant Dermatologist Dr. Anthony Downs. For further information call us or use our online form.

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes the rapid buildup of skin cells. This can lead to patches of thick, red, scaly skin called plaques. Psoriasis can affect any part of the body, but it is most common on the scalp, elbows, knees, and back.

There are many different treatments for psoriasis, including topical creams, light therapy, and oral medications. For some people, these treatments are not effective enough or they cause unwanted side effects. In these cases, biologics may be a good option.

Biologics are a type of medication that works by targeting the immune system. They are typically used to treat moderate to severe psoriasis. Biologics can be very effective in clearing up psoriasis, and they often have fewer side effects than other treatments.

Here are five reasons to consider switching to biologics for psoriasis:

1. They are more effective than other treatments. Biologics have been shown to be more effective than other treatments for psoriasis, including topical creams, light therapy, and oral medications. In clinical trials, biologics have been shown to clear up psoriasis in up to 80% of patients.
2. They have fewer side effects. Biologics tend to have fewer side effects than other treatments for psoriasis. Common side effects of biologics include injection site reactions, infections, and an increased risk of certain types of cancer. However, these side effects are usually mild and go away on their own.
3. They are more convenient. Biologics are typically given as injections once or twice a month. This is more convenient than other treatments for psoriasis, such as topical creams, which need to be applied daily.
4. They are more affordable. The cost of biologics can be high, but there are many programs available to help patients pay for them.
5. They can improve your quality of life. Psoriasis can have a significant impact on your quality of life. It can cause pain, itching, and embarrassment. Biologics can help to improve your quality of life by clearing up your psoriasis and reducing your symptoms.

If you are considering switching to biological treatment for psoriasis, talk to Dr. Anthony Downs. Dr. Downs can help you decide if biologics are right for you and make the best decision for your individual needs.

Here are some additional things to consider when deciding whether or not to switch to biologics for psoriasis:

• Your medical history
• Your current treatment plan
• Your insurance coverage
• Your budget

If you have any questions or concerns about biologics, get in touch with us today. 

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

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.

Call Sarah today on 01392 350059 to book a psoriasis consultation with our Consultant Dermatologist Anthony Downs. For further information call us or use our online form.