People with psoriatic arthritis now have another effective biologic treatment. We have identified more than one inflammatory chemical which is involved in generating excess inflammation in the joints and skin of people with psoriatic arthritis. One of these chemicals is called IL-17 (interleukin-17). There are two treatments which remove IL-17 which were both initially approved for psoriasis only. Of these two treatments removing IL-17, the first one released on the Canadian market called (secukinumab) Cosentyx, has also received approval for treating psoriatic arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis. The second IL-17 biologic released in Canada is called (ixekizumab) Taltz. In the last two months it has received approval for treating for psoriatic arthritis. We are thrilled to add Taltz to our list of effective treatments for this condition. Both of these treatments are available in easy to use auto-injectors and both have a loading dose, where the medication is given weekly for the first five doses (Cosentyx ) or every other week for the first seven doses (Taltz) before starting the maintenance dose of once per month. Our pharmacists are happy to share more information on all treatment options for psoriatic arthritis.
Carolyn Whiskin is the Pharmacy Manager for Charlton Health. Carolyn specializes in the treatment of autoimmune diseases, pharmaceutical compounding, women’s health, pain and smoking cessation. Carolyn has won provincial and national awards for her commitment to patient care and public service.