The Patient’s Guide to Psoriasis Treatment. Part 3: Biologic Injectables

BACKGROUND: An increasing number of injectable biologics are now available for the treatment of psoriasis. However, for individuals who have never received this therapy, the process of performing a self-injection can be daunting. There is lack of patient educational material on how to perform and optimize this treatment. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to present a freely available online guide and video on biologic injections that is informative to patients and increases the success and compliance of patients starting this therapy. METHODS: The self-injection technique taught at the University of California—San Francisco Psoriasis and Skin Treatment Center as well as available information from the literature were reviewed to design a practical guide for patients receiving biologic injections. RESULTS: We created a printable guide and video resource that describes how to improve the injection process, pain management, travel planning, and common concerns with biologic injectables. CONCLUSION: This guide is beneficial for patients who wish to improve their experience with biologic self-injections, for healthcare providers who prescribe these treatments, and for trainees learning about this modality.