Can biologic treatments help cure psoriatic arthritis?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 38-year-old woman living in a tropical country, and was recently diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis. I have been experiencing joint pain and swelling, and my doctor mentioned starting me on a biologic medication. Could you provide more details about biological treatments for psoriatic arthritis and how they help with joint pain? I am also curious about the potential side effects and how to balance treatment with daily life.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

Psoriatic arthritis is a subset of psoriasis where there can be severe and destructive arthritis. To stay productive you need to do regular range of movements exercises, like gentle stretches and deep breathing exercises. You need to ask your doctor about biologics that are now currently available and more effective in improving long term outcomes than anti-inflammatory tablets used alone.

I suggest you please check with your rheumatologist about biologic drugs like Infliximab, Adalimumab, Etanercept, etc. They act on the autoimmune process involved in destroying the joint cartilage and bone resorption. During flareups, these are more effective in controlling symptoms and improving outcomes.

These drugs can have side effects including nausea, vomiting, injection site reactions, and more serious like infections, influenza, etc and thus need medical supervision and consultation before starting these.