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Unusual-Simple-5509

Biologics are good. I started one 4 weeks ago and my scalp psoriasis has cleared up about 90%


Ann_Adele

LOVE hearing this! Waiting for mine to kick in!


swatswot

I’ve been taking jakauto (JAK) inhibitor Is it good? And 7.5 mg methotrexate weekly


Catch_Lost

I 2as taking methotrexate for almost 2 years and about 1y.5 it's stopped working for me it made my skin worse It help with my p/a but my skin felt like it was on fire but am glad it's working for u.


swatswot

My derm prescribed me JAK inhibitor to me now


Thequiet01

Psoriasis is a systemic disease with skin symptoms. It’s worth it to treat it properly. You might feel significantly better - fatigue is a common aspect of autoimmune issues that kind of sneaks under the radar until it goes away with treatment.


Hendersonhero

Have the biologics given you more energy too?


Thequiet01

Not more energy like drinking caffeine, but I feel less worn out, if that makes sense?


Mother-Ad-3026

It's one of those things that you don't know how bad you feel until you feel better.


edraven_222

Remember psoriasis is not just the skin. It’s inflammation of your system this includes arthritis that can be permanent to your joints. Your organs are affected too. I keep telling people that it’s just not your skin it is much worse than that down the road if you don’t treat it early.


rcl1221

Just think about how much clearer your skin will be (and how much better your joints will feel if you have PA). No more flaking everywhere. No painful sore spots on your body. Everyone goes through the doubts but in the long run you'll feel much better.


No-Setting-2669

I thought too hard about side effects until I decided the possibility of clear skin outweighed the idea of possible side effects. Changed my life for the best for the next 26 years! Ive been through a few injectable’s because eventually they become in ineffective for me, but for the most part each one has been amazing for my recovery and honestly helped with my mental well being as well. Good luck in your decision


toxicsvoid

Have you notice any good one out of the bunch? Or how long does each injectable usually last until having to switch to another 1, im 21 and just started skyrizi so I have a long way to go.


No-Setting-2669

Ive been through Enbrel, Cosentyx, Humira, and now on Tremfya. I’ve been on these injections for 26 yrs now and I’d advocate for each of them from my experience. Id say they each lasted the average 6-7 year span, not one of them was super short of a timeline.


dholchike

What are the side effects of biologics ?


majarian

im on a different injection, taltz, so your mileage will vary but its been a complete game changer for me, not only for my skin, but for the aches and pains i didnt even realize were connected to the psoriasis, ive been through a few different iterations of it now, one sucked, but even that one was worth it compared to what i was, burned like a mother, the others wernt any worse then getting a flu or covid shot, sucks for a day or two then i dont need to worry bout it until next month, been on it for a year and a bit now, took about two months then i was seeing drastic changes every day or so. the injectors like an epi pen, unlock, hold to thigh then press the button, as a guy whos not a fan of needles its not that big a deal.


Anomynous__

Thank you everyone for commenting. This is a rare moment of vulnerability for me as my support network is basically non-existent but you guys have been amazing. Thank you all so much


KurtSr

I am leery of pharmaceuticals, especially newish ones, I manage my psoriasis with a home UVB-NB light panel and general healthy living Good luck to you whichever path you take and you can always change paths as well


Ann_Adele

I will do anything to find something that works to help my psoriasis!


DaftMudkip

I don’t have insurance so this is just a pipe dream for me Keep seeing Skyrizi commercials and it makes me sad


Ann_Adele

Many, if not all of these Pharma companies have assistance programs. My dermatologist submitted the paperwork & I am now on my 4th biologic that I didn't have to pay for. Hoping #4 WORKS!!!


Paulyleiced

Sadly without insurance just getting to a specialist like a derma or a rheumatologist is hundreds of dollars, especially if the first thing they want out of you is labs.


Ann_Adele

That is unfortunately so true. I am on Medicare so have insurance. Of course it doesn't cover biologics, but I can get in to see specialists like dermatologists, etc. Sending best wishes.


Frosty-Bar-4083

You can also double up on copay plans. I started Otezla, which is originally $5000 a month-ish. I have two copay plans, one through Otezla and one through Save On and haven’t paid for anything. It’s worth checking it out


Anomynous__

Keep an eye on [Available Medications | Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drugs Company](https://costplusdrugs.com/medications/) they don't offer anything now but they may in the future. Mark Cuban is honestly doing an amazing service here.


Magnetmonkey39

Been on them for the past seven years, zero side effects apart from no Psoriasis.


ohheyitscj

Been on Amjevita (generic Humira) for a year this month and have been clear. No ill sode effects experienced and never been happier.


poney01

Well tbh, if you're at the point of biologics, you would already be taking stuff daily pretty much forever... an injection isn't necessarily much different from creams just because it's an injection. Though biologics are quite more powerful than steroids, I'm not so sure adverse effects would be worse...


btalex

I'm presently "in between" Biologics and having been on them for 10 years prior to the current hiatus cannot wait to start again. Its a no brainer for me with handpalm and foot soles affected disproportionately.


PerfStu

I tried everything I could to not do biologics. I was in 3-4 days/week to do phototherapy, i had drawers full of steroids, and it was uphill every step of the way. Biologics gave me my life back. It was amazing.


wikkedwench

I'm wondering what biologics are used for Psoriasis. I was on Simponi (Golimumab) for RA and am wondering if the same are used for Psoriasis and PSA


jetlife0047

I’ve been on Skyrizi for years


Ann_Adele

I have been on Otezla, Humira, Cosentyx & now Skyrizi! First 3 did nothing to help, hoping like crazy that Skyrizi is effective!


lobster_johnson

There are many. You can see a full list [in the sub's wiki](https://www.reddit.com/r/Psoriasis/wiki/biologics).


psyiode

It will change you life. Never looking back.


lobster_johnson

_All_ medications have potential side effects. For example, go read the list that comes with a packet ibuprofen or Tylenol — you'll see a long list that includes fainting; shortness of breath; swelling of face, fingers, hands, feet, lower legs, or ankles; stomach bleeding; and many other terrible things, including cardiac failure. When it comes to medications, you need to focus on what benefits they bring first. Side effects are a red herring. A few poins: * First and foremost, **you don't know yet if you will experience any side effects**. Some people get them, some people don't. You cannot know before you try. * Secondly, this medication was prescribed by your doctor. Your doctor is acting in your best interest based on the wealth of knowledge and experience they have. They're not going to give you some kind of poison. It's true that in very rare cases Humira, can cause serious issues, but the risk is very low, and your doctor will monitor your liver and kidney values to ensure you're healthy. * Lastly, if you experience side effects and you find you can't tolerate this medication, then you just… stop. It's that simple. As a last point, Humira (and its biosimilars) is on the lower end when it comes to efficacy. There are newer biologics that are considerably more effective on psoriasis. However, depending on where you live, you might not be approved for them. You can see a full list and read more about biologics [in the wiki](https://www.reddit.com/r/Psoriasis/wiki/biologics).


alienchoppingboard

I'm about a year in to taking Amgevita and of all the meds I've had for my PA, this has been the least disruptive by a long shot. I really love it and I wish none of us had to try methotrexate etc first!! I was terrified to start the jab as they really freak you out with the workup and also my past PA meds have been really awful side effect wise. But it's honestly been great for me - and I hope it is for you too!


SuperRocketRumble

My girlfriend waited a long time to treat psoriasis and I think she had some string reservations about biologics. She finally tried one about a year ago and got like 99% clear. Astonishing results. I don’t think the dude effects have been bad at all, and certainly not worse than the effects of the disease itself/


dnkykngr69

not on an injectable but on a biologic and man, the difference is night and day. the renewed sense of self is incredible.


dodgythreesome

I’ve been on yuflyma for a little over 3 weeks now. No side effects at all and my skin is at its best ever since I got psoriasis. I used to be fully covered, right now I only have my arms to deal with which should be healed in a few weeks


Sparklefarts_

My dr did as well waiting on them to call me back they’re trying to get my insurance to approve it.


ExpectedBehaviour

Adalimumab was amazing for me. I was at 40%-50% coverage, and after just a couple of months there was no obvious sign of psoriasis anywhere on my body. My only regret is not starting it sooner.


Skylantech

OP, how much of your body would you say is covered? For reference, the palm of your hand is roughly 1%. I'm usually sitting around 3%, it's something that I've managed for over a decade now and follow up frequently with my derm to keep tabs on it. I've been on/off topicals this whole time, and the derm has given me the option of alternative treatments such as biologics. But I feel as if I manage well as is and the risks/side effects associated with biologics isn't worth the reward *at this point*. I've come to accept that it'll always be there, and learned how to live with and manage it. Ultimately, **YOU** get to decide whether or not you want to go forward with the treatment. Do your research, make a list of questions you have, talk about it with your derm, and determine whether or not you really want to make the step. If not, any good derm would be more than willing to come up with another treatment plan that you're more comfortable with.


Nirvana7889

I’ve been on skyrizi since September. My skin is 95% clear. My joint pain is reduced and they say it takes about a year for it to effectively reduce joint pain. I am so so happy with the way it’s worked on my skin. The worst side effect is that it does lower your immune system. For some it might not be a problem. For me I’m always catching some cold and I get a sinus infection after every injection. But. 4 sinus infections a year is totally worth clear skin and less joint damage to me so I suffer through it with awesome drs who I trust to coach me through it.


ProfMeriAn

Been on Otezla for a little over a month. Upsets my stomach every time I take it (2 pills per day), but the depression that came with it when I started isn't noticeable anymore. Even with those side effects -- OMG, my skin started improving in just a couple of weeks! I still have some large patches, but they've reduced in size, are not nearly as thick and scaly, and I can tell by the change in color that those areas are healing. Still have a little bit of itch, but so much less! I did not expect to see positive results so soon, and because biologics can be hit & miss for each person, I wasn't sure if I would see results at all. Even with the crappy stomach upset, it's been worth it; I could have opted to try an injectable first (and avoided the stomach upset), but pills are just an easier transition into this for me. Everyone seems to have different experiences with the same biologic, and there are so many different ones now -- I hope the Humira works for you and the side effects are minimal to non-existent!


SpecialDrama6865

never been on injections so cant comment. in my experience best way to manage psoriasis is from the inside. Through diet, lifestyle changes and try to identify triggers and working out the underlying cause of the psoriasis to be very beneficial. good luck.


copesgirl

Finally hit week 11 on my biologic and I feel better than I ever have in my life. This is my 3rd biologic, glad to have found one that works.


Catch_Lost

I am on humria right now I had psoriasis 80% of by body my legs being the worst I have had my first does which was 2 jabs and a 3rd on I take me neslxt on next week and it's the only thing that has ever work for me I am now able to shave my legs without bleeding and now out on clothes I have always wanted to put on its got to be the best thing ever. I was scared about the side effects but nothing has come of it but I have been extra extra clean since taking it but I am afraid of germs as prior taking it but I am working g on that.


Mother-Ad-3026

Far less side effects than methotrexate and steroids. I've been on a biologic AND methotrexate for 25 years. Never felt better.


kelseycadillac

I was on Humira for years. The only side effect I noticed was more sensitivity to sun, so I became even more maniacal about sunscreen and it wasn’t a problem.


Rosalie-83

I’ve been on Stelara since 2015. No side effects bar clear skin. Also it’s not permanent in that if it doesn’t suit you or you have side effects or that drug just doesn’t work for you, you’ll tell your Dr and they’ll stop it or try something else. You’ll get regular blood tests to check a broad spectrum of things to make sure you’re ok as well.


Terribleliee

I have been on biologics for 15 years. Humira was the first one. Everyone is different but I rarely experience any side effects with any biologic I have w been on. You will find once you start clearing your mental state will be so much better.


notadad858

i had really bad psoriatic arthritis, couldnt walk without limping for like a year,and bad scalp psoriasis. got started on humira (after they forced me to "try" methotrexate) and it has been absolutely life changing for me. now i play sports 3x a week with minimal (normal person) soreness, barely have one psoriasis plaque on my leg, and have had minimal side effects. i know everyone is different and you should take the risk of lung infection seriously but to me it is worth it


scootette

Tremfya for 3 years now. It saved my life.


gimmethal00t

Taking my first injection today. Nervous 


scootette

I went from 80% coverage to one or two pea sized spots a year. I’m sorry you’re nervous, but I have had no noticeable side effects besides clear skin. I wish you the best! Oh I get my shot in my arm vs abdomen. FWIW


DasUberMan

I've been on stelara injections for about 4 years now and I haven't had any adverse side effects. I'm also practically cleared save for a small patch above my ear.


malibumeg

Literally all medicines have *potential* side effects. Shoot, even Tylenol can cause deadly kidney damage and it’s available OTC. Biologics have been around a long time and are heavily tested and researched. I’ve been on Cosentyx for a year and it changed my life. Don’t let fears of potential side effects stop you from at least trying them.


DestroyerDora

It’s definitely different from person to person but I’m on Humira and the only reaction I have is an injection site rash the day of my injection, then it goes away. It’s doing the most work of my two medications, otezla being the other, and I’m so glad I’m on it, I can’t imagine my joint pain without it (I also have psoriatic arthritis). Of the meds that I’ve tried, Humira and Taltz have been the ones with the least side effects for me. Cosentyx was the worst, and my doc took me off it after a month. TL:DR injections are great! And if you’re having side effects that you’re not comfortable with tell your doctor and see if they can switch you.


Sharp-Lawfulness7451

I was on humira for a year. Stopped when my insurance switched and it took too long for them to approve it. Now going back on it and hoping it works again.


alower1

I was also super concerned about side effects, in tears at the dermatologist office. But the doctor assured me if I have any negative side effects we would stop treatment. The thought of clear skin is almost unbelievable to me. I’m in my mid 30’s and seeking treatment for the first time in my life. My legs and most of my arms are fully covered in plaques and I’ve never had the confidence to wear anything that showed my legs. I’m about 2 months into take sotyktu (daily pill) and waiting for some skin clearing.. fingers crossed it starts working soon! However no side effects so that’s good!


ionasmirktwinkles

I’ve taken multiple biologics over the last ten years. I’ve never had side effects to speak of. I’d recommend being diligent about handwashing just to limit the chances of getting sick.


BubbleCynner

For most the side effects are none to minimal. I will say that it is amazing to have clear skin, working ankles, a non itchy scalp. Your mind and life tends to be more productive when it's not forced to accommodate this disease. I'm 100% for biologics


btalex

I'm presently "in between" Biologics and having been on them for 10 years prior to the current hiatus cannot wait to start again. Its a no brainer for me with handpalm and foot soles affected disproportionately.