Though biologic drugs (a/k/a “biologics) have been in existence for over 100 years, their use has become more prolific in modern medicine over the last ten years thanks to advances in molecular biology.  Biologics are protein-based drugs resulting from living cells, which are cultured in laboratories.  Biologics such as Enbrel, Humira, Remicade, Stelara, and Simponi are relatively new treatments for psoriasis, which are administered by injection or IV infusion.  Before biologics, patients with psoriasis sometimes relied on steroid based systemic drugs like Methotrexate, which impacts the patient’s entire immune system and other systems.  Unlike systemic medications, biologics are engineered to only impact certain portions of the patient’s immune system.  For example, biologics may be formulated to block certain immune system proteins or interrupt immune system T-cells, because both play a role in developing psoriasis.  Dr. Stephen Mahoney distinguishes himself from other dermatologists by being one of the top doctors to treat psoriasis because he is involved with clinical trials for biologics such as Enbrel, Humira, and Stelara.  Dr. Mahoney is often consulted to speak at physician continuing education seminars (CME) and is a clinical assistant professor of dermatology at the University of Texas Medical School Houston.    If you or a loved one need assistance living with psoriasis, contact West Houston Dermatology to make an appointment today.