What Diseases Do Biologic Medicines Treat?

The most common forms of autoimmune diseases are Rheumatoid Arthritis and Psoriatic Arthritis. Many biologics — including Remicade, Rituxan, Actemra, and Orencia — are indicated to treat moderate to severe Rheumatoid Arthritis. All of these medications, with the exception of Orencia, Rituxan, and Actemra, are also indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe Psoriatic Arthritis. Ankylosing Spondylitis is a less common inflammatory arthritis for which Remicade, Humira, Enbrel, and Simponi are indicated. Remicade, Humira, and Cimzia are also indicated to treat inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis.

Gout is a different kind of arthritis caused by the deposition of needle-shaped crystals in both small and large joints. This disease affects millions of Americans and can be extremely painful and debilitating. Many people respond to oral medications for gout, but in severe situations or when there is an allergy to oral medications, Krystexxa is a newer biologic option.

A recent addition to available treatments is the first biologic medication approved for systemic lupus erythematosus — and the first medication approved for the disease in more than thirty years. This is an exciting new option for lupus patients whose condition is not clinically controlled on oral medications.

Multiple Sclerosis is a degenerative neurologic disorder for which there is no known cure. Medical treatment options include Tysabri and Privgen, both of which can significantly decrease symptoms in some patients.