Brodalumab for Treatment-Resistant Psoriasis: Case Reports and Safety Update. Issue 3 (July 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Brownstone, Nicholas D.; Reddy, Vidhatha; Thibodeaux, Quinn; Chan, Stephanie; Myers, Bridget; Bhutani, Tina; Koo, John Y. M.
• Is Part Of: Journal of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Volume 5:Issue 3(2020)
• Page Start: 82
• Page End: 85
• Publication Date: 2020-07
• Subjects: interleukin 17 inhibitor -- biologic treatment -- psoriasis -- case report -- brodalumab -- treatment outcomes; Psoriasis -- Periodicals; Psoriasis -- Treatment -- Periodicals; Psoriatic arthritis -- Periodicals; Psoriatic arthritis -- Treatment -- Periodicals; Electronic journals; 616.722
• DOI: 10.1177/2475530320925067
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2475-5303

Abstract

Introduction: Brodalumab is an interleukin-17 receptor blocker that is effective for the treatment of psoriasis. However, due to a Food and Drug Administration black box warning on depression and suicide, many providers are hesitant to use this agent despite its efficacy. Methods: We present the cases of 2 brothers seen at our clinic with treatment-resistant psoriasis who were both successfully treated with brodalumab, despite failing 6 other biologics. We also review the safety profile of brodalumab regarding the currently available evidence on the increased risk of suicidality or depression in patients treated with brodalumab. Results: Both patients achieved completely clear skin and maintained clearance on brodalumab. Discussion: Brodalumab appears to be an effective agent in severe treatment-resistant cases of psoriasis. In addition, a causal relationship between increased risk of suicidality or depression and brodalumab use has not been established.