Psoriasis is a noncontagious skin condition that produces red, dry plaques of thickened skin. The dry flakes and skin scales are thought to result from the rapid proliferation of skin cells that is triggered by abnormal lymphocytes from the blood . Psoriasis commonly affects the skin of the elbows, knees, and scalp.
Some people have such mild ps...
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Alefacept is a protein that reduces specific actions of the immune system that are involved in causing psoriasis.
Alefacept is used for the treatment of moderate to severe chronic plaque psoriasis in people who are candidates for systemic therapy or phototherapy.
Alefacept may also be used for purposes other than those listed here.
Alefacept reduces levels of certain white blood cells in the body. If the level of these white blood cells falls too low, treatment with alefacept may need to be withheld temporarily or discontinued. Your doctor will monitor your white blood cell levels during treatment.
Alefacept may increase the risk of developing cancer. Do not use alefacept without first talking to your doctor if you have cancer or a history of cancer.
Alefacept reduces certain actions of the immune system and may increase the risk of developing a new infection or reactivating a chronic infection that has been latent (inactive). Contact your doctor immediately if you develop symptoms of an infection such as fever or chills, sore throat, coughing, or burning with urination.
Stop using alefacept and seek emergency medical attention if you develop symptoms of an allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives.
Other less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to use alefacept and talk to your doctor if you experience
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Patients with HIV should not take alefacept. Talk to your doctor before taking alefacept if you are HIV positive.
Alefacept reduces levels of certain white blood cells in the body. If the level of these white blood cells falls too low, treatment with alefacept may need to be withheld temporarily or discontinued. Your doctor will monitor your white blood cell levels during treatment.
Alefacept may increase the risk of developing cancer. Do not use alefacept without first talking to your doctor if you have cancer or a history of cancer.
Alefacept reduces certain actions of the immune system and may increase the risk of developing a new infection or reactivating a chronic infection that has been latent (inactive). Contact your doctor immediately if you develop symptoms of an infection such as fever or chills, sore throat, coughing, or burning with urination.
Here is a collection of user reviews for the medication Amevive sorted by most helpful.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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