If you have psoriatic arthritis, you might wonder about the best infusion for psoriatic arthritis. Entyvio (vedolizumab) is a popular infusion therapy, but it may not be your top choice for this condition.
Let us explore what makes an infusion treatment effective for psoriatic arthritis and where Entyvio fits in.
Understanding Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis affects your joints and skin. It causes pain, swelling, and stiffness that can impact your daily life.
When other treatments do not work well enough, doctors often recommend IV infusion therapies. These powerful medications can help control symptoms and prevent joint damage.
Understanding Entyvio and Its Primary Uses
What does Entyvio treat exactly? Entyvio works best for inflammatory bowel diseases. The Food and Drug Administration approved it specifically for Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. This medication targets gut inflammation by blocking certain immune system proteins.
Entyvio belongs to a class of drugs called integrin receptor antagonists. It stops white blood cells from entering the gut lining. This action reduces inflammation in the digestive tract. However, psoriatic arthritis affects joints and skin, not the digestive system.
The medication works differently from other infusion therapies used for psoriatic arthritis. Most joint-focused infusions target broader inflammatory pathways. Entyvio’s gut-specific action makes it less suitable for joint and skin symptoms.
Why Entyvio Is Not the Top Choice for Psoriatic Arthritis
Medical research shows limited evidence supporting Entyvio for psoriatic arthritis treatment. The medication lacks approval from regulatory agencies for this specific condition. Most clinical studies focused on its effectiveness for inflammatory bowel diseases.
Doctors rarely prescribe Entyvio as a first-line treatment for psoriatic arthritis. The medication’s mechanism targets gut inflammation rather than joint inflammation. Patients with psoriatic arthritis need treatments that address both joint and skin symptoms effectively.
Insurance companies may not cover Entyvio for psoriatic arthritis treatment. Coverage typically requires FDA approval for specific conditions. Using Entyvio off-label for psoriatic arthritis could result in higher out-of-pocket costs.
Better Infusion Options for Psoriatic Arthritis
Several other IV infusion therapies show better results for psoriatic arthritis patients. These medications specifically target the inflammatory pathways involved in joint and skin symptoms.
Infliximab (Remicade)
Infliximab (Remicade) stands out as an effective option for psoriatic arthritis. This medication blocks tumor necrosis factor, a key protein in joint inflammation. Clinical studies show significant improvement in joint pain and skin symptoms.
Renflexis, a biosimilar to Remicade, offers similar benefits at potentially lower costs. Both medications require infusions every eight weeks after initial loading doses. Side effects may include increased infection risk and injection site reactions.
Stelara (ustekinumab)
Stelara (ustekinumab) targets different inflammatory proteins called interleukins. This medication effectively treats both joint symptoms and skin plaques. Patients typically receive infusions every 12 weeks after initial doses.
Research shows Stelara can slow joint damage progression in psoriatic arthritis. The medication also improves skin symptoms better than some other treatments. Common side effects include upper respiratory infections and headaches.
Choosing the Right Treatment
Your doctor will consider several factors when selecting the best infusion for psoriatic arthritis. These include your symptom severity, previous treatment responses, and overall health status.
Some patients may benefit from combination therapies or switching between different medications.
How Infusion Therapy Works for Psoriatic Arthritis
IV infusion treatments deliver medication directly into your bloodstream. This method ensures quick absorption and consistent drug levels. Most infusions take one to three hours to complete in a medical facility.
The process begins with a small needle inserted into your arm vein. Healthcare providers monitor you throughout the infusion for any adverse reactions. Many patients read, work, or rest during their treatment sessions.
Infusion schedules vary depending on the specific medication. Some require monthly treatments, while others need infusions every few months. Your healthcare team will create a schedule that fits your needs and lifestyle.
Best Infusion for Psoriatic Arthritis in Atlanta, GA
Managing psoriatic arthritis requires expert medical care and appropriate treatment selection. While Entyvio excels at treating inflammatory bowel diseases, other infusion options work better for joint and skin symptoms.
At GI Care Infusion, our experienced team specializes in delivering various infusion therapies for autoimmune conditions. We provide comfortable, professional care in a setting designed specifically for infusion treatments.
Do not let psoriatic arthritis control your life. Contact GI Care Infusion today at (470) 785-4616 or fill out our appointment request form to learn more about your treatment options and schedule a consultation. Our team is ready to help you find the best infusion for psoriatic arthritis to manage your symptoms effectively.
