Please check this section daily as we will continually update it as new information becomes available throughout this national pandemic.

Because this virus is so new, we do not have any hard data on whether biologics make patients susceptible to coronavirus infection or not. We do, however, have data from clinical trials that report on, and outline the risk associated with these medications and other viral and respiratory infections. The numbers are small, but if there is any risk of susceptibility to other viral infections, the risk appears to be low with most of the biologics used for psoriasis and eczema. We have not been discontinuing drugs that block IL-17 (Cosentyx and Taltz), drugs that block IL-4 (Dupixent), or drugs that block IL-23 (Skyrizi and Tremfya) because the risk appears to be very small. It does appear that TNF blockers (Remicade, Enbrel, Humira, and Cimzia) may make patients more susceptible to infection, so if you desire, we can offer you the opportunity to switch to one of the new drugs that appear to have a lower risk of infection. Because Stelara blocks two molecules (IL-12 and IL-23) and IL-12 may play a role in the development of viral infections, we will also offer patients on Stelara the option to switch to IL-23 blocking drugs which block less of the immune system and are even more effective at treating psoriasis. Please note that in registries, Stelara has not been shown to increase infections although we obviously don’t have any data on the coronavirus. If you are on a TNF blocker (Remicade, Enbrel, Humira, or Cimzia) or Stelara, feel free to make an appointment to come in, or make an appointment for our new remote visits (telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your doctor through a live video feed from the comfort and safety of your own home) and we can make the switch for you if you desire. Please also note that insurance approval of biologic medications often takes time even in these extenuating circumstances.

For patients on oral medications, methotrexate and cellcept (mycophenolate mofetil) are immunosuppressive, so take all precautions to avoid exposure to this virus. Otezla is a phosphodiesterase inhibitor like caffeine and has not been associated with an increase in infections. Likewise, Soriatane (acitretin) is related to Vitamin A and is not immunosuppressive.

If at any time you become infected with COVID-19 or suspect that you may be infected with COVID-19, you should immediately stop these types of medications and see your family doctor or go to the nearest ER as appropriate.