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

MedicationHow it worksHow it is givenSpeed of actionUnsuitable patientsCommon side-effectsPre-treatment testsCost per month after loading doses*
Taltz®IL-17 inhibitor80mg monthly with self-injector. 160mg loading doseWithin 12 weeksInflammatory bowel disease, pregnancy or breast feeding, active TB, avoid live vaccinesCandida and fungal infections. Allergic reactionsBlood tests and chest Xray£780

*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.

Book a consultation

Dr Anthony Downs Exeter Consultant Dermatologist & skin expert Devon
Appointments with
Dr Anthony Downs in Devon (Exeter) 
Call Sarah on 01392 350059
Dr Anthony Downs Exeter Consultant Dermatologist & skin expert Devon
Appointments with
Dr Anthony Downs in Cornwall (Truro)
Call Angela on 07421 022801
Appointments with
Dr Christopher Bower in Exeter (Exeter Nuffield)
Call Ros on 07838 293968

For non-urgent enquiries get in touch online

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