Biologics target inflammation at its source to control the disease process, which in turn helps ease psoriatic arthritis symptoms, prevent joint damage, and improve quality of life.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to help alleviate pain and swellingTraditional DMARDs to slow disease progression and improve symptomsImmunosuppressants to dampen an overactive immune responseSteroids to reduce inflammation and ease symptoms, especially during a flareEnzyme inhibitors to slow down the inflammatory response
Biologics tend to be prescribed for moderate-to-severe psoriatic arthritis, where the potential for joint damage is greater than in milder forms of the condition. Because they target a specific source of underlying inflammation, biologics can help slow disease progression in addition to improving symptoms. If your psoriatic arthritis isn’t getting better or is getting worse, check in with your doctor. “The good news about psoriatic arthritis is that we have lots of treatments,” Zashin says. A biologic can be used on its own or in combination with other treatments to get your condition under control. Take some time to absorb this info and decide if biologics are something you might want to consider.
