Psoriasis is a chronic, autoimmune disease that causes the skin to grow excess layers of cells. It typically appears as raised, red patches covered with silvery scales. There are multiple types of psoriasis and its severity often fluctuates. The most common type is plaque psoriasis, which makes up about 90% of all cases. Moderate to severe plaque psoriasis can be very uncomfortable and have a negative impact on your life.
Fortunately, there are brand-name prescription medications that can effectively treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis without causing side effects or complications.
Plaque psoriasis is most commonly found on the knees, elbows, back and scalp; however, it can occur anywhere on the body where you have a lot of skin folds or areas where there are large amounts of sweat glands. It involves overproduction of keratinocytes in the top layer of the skin called the stratum corneum (SC). These skin cells push through to create thick scales and red plaques that itch and sting when they rub together. Read on to know more about Ilumya – A brand-name prescription medication for moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.
What is Ilumya?
Ilumya (tildrakizumab) is a prescription medication used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. It is a type of immunotherapy drug that works by inhibiting certain immune system proteins known as cytokines that are responsible for causing psoriasis. Ilumya is delivered via subcutaneous injection once every two weeks, followed by a six-week treatment-free period. Ilumya is manufactured by Biogen, Inc. and is sold under the brand name Taltz. It is available as a 30-mg/mL prefilled syringe and a single-use auto-injector pen.
How does Ilumya Work?
The precise mechanism of action of Ilumya is not known. However, it is a type of immunotherapy drug that works by inhibiting certain immune system proteins known as cytokines that are responsible for causing psoriasis. It is thought that Ilumya may work differently in different patients. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that affects the skin.
It causes your immune system to mistakenly target your cells and produce too much keratin (a protein that makes up 90% of your skin). As a result, your skin cells grow too quickly, which causes scales and red patches on your skin. A type of immune cell called a T-cell is involved in psoriasis. Ilumya works by targeting specific cytokines that help drive psoriasis. These cytokines are interleukin (IL)-12, IL-23, and IL-17.
Where Can You Buy Ilumya?
Ilumya is a brand-name prescription medication. As such, you need to have a prescription from your doctor before you can buy it. Before you ask your doctor for a prescription, make sure that you understand what type of psoriasis you have and how severe it is. Your doctor may want to prescribe you a different medication depending on your specific case. Ilumya has a few different dosing options. If you have moderate to severe psoriasis, you may be prescribed the 150-mg dose every two weeks.
Like all medications, Ilumya may cause a few unwanted side effects. These include swelling, joint stiffness, headache, nausea, abdominal pain, and itching. In rare cases, patients have reported experiencing the following side effects:
Blood clots: Blood clots can occur when you are treated with Ilumya. Patients are advised to immediately discontinue treatment if they experience signs of a clot, such as shortness of breath, leg pain, or swelling.
Infections: Patients who have a weakened immune system due to Ilumya treatment have a higher risk of contracting infections.
Depression: Patients have reported experiencing feelings of depression while taking Ilumya.
Conclusion: Ilumya: A Brand-Name Prescription Medication for Moderate to Severe Plaque Psoriasis
All in all, Ilumya is a prescription medication used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. It is a type of immunotherapy drug that works by inhibiting certain immune system proteins known as cytokines that are responsible for causing psoriasis. Ilumya is delivered via subcutaneous injection once every two weeks, followed by a six-week treatment-free period.
Although Ilumya can be effective in treating psoriasis, it is important to note that it is not a permanent cure. It is recommended that patients continue to take the medication for the rest of their lives.
If you are living with moderate to severe psoriasis, you may benefit from Ilumya treatment. It is a brand-name prescription medication that works by inhibiting certain immune system proteins responsible for causing psoriasis. With proper dosage and treatment, you can get relief from the symptoms of psoriasis and lead a normal, healthy life.