Efalizumab in the treatment of psoriasis.
Efalizumab is a humanized, monoclonal antibody, which targets CD11a, one of the subunits of leukocyte function-associated antigen-1. Administered subcutaneously once weekly, it decreases the activation of T lymphocytes as a primary or secondary process and interferes with the trafficking of T cells into sites of inflammation. Clinically, improvement in psoriasis can be observed as early as two to four weeks. The percent of patients experiencing a 75% reduction in PASI (PASI-75) was 27%, 44%, 47% at 12 weeks, 24 weeks, and 24 months, respectively. During the trials, the safety profile was highly favorable, with minor headaches and myalgias occurring after the initial doses. Rebound on abrupt discontinuation can be problematic for some patients and avoided by transition to an alternative therapy. Efalizumab appears to be a valuable option for patients requiring long-term control of their psoriasis.
Leonardi
Craig L
CL
Saint Louis University School of Medicine and Central Dermatology, Saint Louis, Missouri , USA. leonardi@centralderm.com
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D061067:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized; D017326:Clinical Trials, Phase III as Topic; D006801:Humans; D011565:Psoriasis / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000473:pathology
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D061067:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized; C472181:efalizumab