Dr. Ahmed
Brodalumab is a human monoclonal antibody directed against Interleukin 17 (IL-17). It is available as a subcutaneous injection under the brand name Siliq.
Brodalumab (Siliq) is a very potent biological medicine as it improves symptoms of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis in a majority of difficult-to-treat patients.
Phase 3 randomized, double-blinded studies have shown that Brodalumab significantly improves clinical outcomes in patients.
By week 12, 83% of patients treated with Brodalumab achieved a 75% reduction in psoriasis area and severity score (PASI 75), compared to 3% of those on placebo.
Additionally, nearly 42% of patients on Brodalumab achieved a PASI 100 response rate.
Furthermore, 76% of patients reached a static Physician’s Global Assessment (sPGA) success, defined as an sPGA score of 0 or 1.
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Understanding Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes skin cells to grow at a very fast pace. This rapid change in cells leads to a lot of dead skin cells which causes the characteristic plaques formation.
Furthermore, the exact cause of psoriasis remains unknown, but genetics and environmental triggers are believed to play a role.
On the other hand, psoriatic arthritis causes inflammation in and around the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling.
And it often develops in people who have already been diagnosed with psoriasis. Still, this condition can occur in people without previous psoriasis.
Psoriatic arthritis is very deforming if uncontrolled. It can lead to loss of digits (arthritis mutilans) and severe functional impairment.
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How Does Brodalumab (Siliq) Work?
Brodalumab is a type of medicine called an interleukin-17 (IL-17) inhibitor and these medicines target a specific protein, IL-17, which normally helps the immune system fight off infections.
However, in conditions like psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, IL-17 levels get too high and cause inflammation.
Brodalumab is a special protein made in a lab that acts like an antibody and it works by binding to IL-17 and stopping it from connecting with its receptors on cells.
This blocks the inflammation signals that IL-17 usually sends which then reduces inflammation in the body.
As a result, Brodalumab helps calm the overactive immune system while slowing down the rapid production of skin cells in psoriasis and reduces joint inflammation in psoriatic arthritis. Due to this, there will be a noticeable decrease in symptoms.
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Brodalumab for Psoriasis
Brodalumab is approved by the FDA for treating moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults [ref].
Studies have shown impressive results, with a significant percentage of patients experiencing clearer skin after just weeks of treatment [ref].
Brodalumab offers several advantages over traditional treatments:
- Brodalumab has a better chance of clearing skin compared to creams or light treatments like phototherapy.
- Brodalumab’s effects can last a long time, so you need treatments less often.
- You can give yourself Brodalumab injections, allowing more control and flexibility than using creams.
Brodalumab for Psoriatic Arthritis
Even though it is not yet FDA-approved for psoriatic arthritis, it still shows promise in managing the condition.
Research suggests it can be very effective in lowering joint pain and swelling and improving joint function.
There are more clinical trials that are ongoing to confirm its long-term safety and efficacy for psoriatic arthritis.
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Important Considerations for Brodalumab
Brodalumab has potential side effects which are present in any other medication too.
Some common side effects include lethargy, headache, upper respiratory infections, fatigue, and injection site reactions.
It is rather important to discuss these potential side effects with your physician before starting treatment so you know what you are getting yourself into.
Brodalumab also carries a black box warning [ref], stressing the increased risk of suicidal ideation and behavior in some patients.
Therefore, it is significant to be aware of this risk and to report any changes in mood or behavior to your doctor immediately.
Who is a Candidate for Brodalumab (Siliq)?
Brodalumab is not meant for everyone, and it is most suitable for adults with moderate to severe psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis who have not responded properly to other treatments.
Your doctor will check your individual situation and medical history to see if Brodalumab is the right choice for you.
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Living a balanced life with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis
While Brodalumab can significantly improve your condition, managing psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis is actually more than just taking a medicine.
Here are some additional tips to consider:
- Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and managing stress can all lead to improved disease control.
- A bit of sun exposure can help some people with psoriasis, but you should talk to your doctor first, as too much sun can make it worse.
- Keeping your skin hydrated will help limit itching and discomfort associated with psoriasis.
- Talking to others who understand living with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis can be very helpful.
Conclusion
Brodalumab (Siliq) is a new option for treating moderate to severe psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. It targets inflammation, helping to clear skin, reduce joint pain, and improve quality of life.
Talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks to see if this is the best choice for you.
Remember that managing these conditions is more than just using a drug as it involves making lifestyle changes and having support for the best results as well.
