We are pleased to share that a new biologic treatment has been approved for the treatment of psoriatic arthritis. People who have this condition can suffer from inflammation in joints of the hands and feet as well as larger joints such as the elbows, shoulders, hips, knees and lower back. There is also inflammation in the tendons and ligaments that attach to these joints. Some people also suffer with a significant amount of psoriasis where others may only have a family history of psoriasis or have limited areas on the scalp and nails. The ideal treatment will reduce inflammation in all areas to reduce pain, stiffness and areas of skin involvement.
Tremfya (guselkumab) is a large protein based treatment known as a biologic. It binds to a substance called Interleukin-23 (IL-23) to prevent excess signalling to the immune system. This results in a reduction of inflammation in all areas affected by psoriatic arthritis. It is given by injection by either a pre-filled syringe or a patient-controlled autoinjector called a One-Press. After the initial injection, a second dose is given 4 weeks later and then every 8 weeks as a maintenance dose. Tremfya was initially approved for psoriasis, but it is very exciting to see the proven benefits it has on the joints as well!
We have very much enjoyed bringing you this weekly blog for the past few years. As of this month, we will be publishing blogs on a bi-weekly basis. However, if there is critical information that needs to be shared, we will post more often. We also bring you content over on our Facebook and Twitter pages, so you can always tune in there if you miss having us in your inbox as frequently!
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.
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