Biologic medications, or “biologics,” are injectable medications that reduce inflammation by targeting specific part of the immune system.
Biologics may be prescribed to treat a wide range of inflammatory conditions, including psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and Crohn's disease. Some biologics have been FDA approved for the treatment of moderate to severe eczema.
Taken subcutaneously (through the skin) or intravenously (in the vein), biologics are genetically engineered medications that contain proteins derived from living tissues or cells cultured in a laboratory.
- Dupixent® (dupilumab) - Dupixent® is approved by the FDA for adults and children aged 6 years and older with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis for whom topical treatments have not worked or are not recommended.
- Dupixent is administered by injection every 14 days.
- Dupixent is approved for adults and children 6 to 11 years of age and older for uncontrolled moderate-to-severe eczema.
- Dupixent can be used with or without topical corticosteroid creams or ointments.
- Adbry® (tralokinumab-ldrm) - Adbry (tralokinumab-ldrm) is FDA approved for use by adults (18+ years) with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis whose disease is not adequately controlled with topical prescription therapies used on the skin (topical therapies) or when those therapies are not recommended.
Insurance Coverage and Reimbursement
Biologics prescribed for the treatment of psoriasis are not always covered by health insurance. It is important to check with your health insurance carrier to see if and how biologics are covered. Some insurance companies offer partial coverage, require prior authorization, or work only with certain pharmacies through mail-order programs.
Also, some biologics manufacturers provide information on how to work with insurance companies and offer reduced-cost medication for qualifying patients.
© 2021 Allergy and Asthma Network
Last updated : 2/6/2023