Dealing with psoriasis can be a lifelong struggle, and despite efforts to find a cure, there still isn’t one. However, advancements in medical technology have led to treatments and therapies that can significantly reduce the symptoms of psoriasis. One such treatment is IV drip therapy.
Let’s explore how IV drip therapy can help alleviate psoriasis symptoms and provide much-needed relief for those dealing with this chronic condition.
Understanding Psoriasis
Psoriasis is an autoimmune, chronic skin condition, which means it occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells. In the case of psoriasis, the immune system triggers an overproduction of skin cells, leading to their rapid accumulation on the skin’s surface.
This buildup leads to patches that can be quite distressing for those affected. Symptoms of psoriasis can vary from person to person, but common signs include:
- Patchy rashes
- Purple, gray, or silver scaly patches of skin
- Dry, cracked skin prone to bleeding
- Itching and burning sensations around areas with a rash
- Soreness
These symptoms can lead to significant discomfort and can impact a person’s quality of life.
What is IV Therapy?
IV therapy, also known as intravenous therapy, is a treatment that involves delivering fluids, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients directly into the bloodstream. This can be done through an IV drip, a small needle inserted into a vein in the arm or hand.
The fluids are delivered slowly over time, allowing the body to absorb them more efficiently than orally.
How Can an IV Drip Help with Psoriasis?
IV drip therapy for psoriasis involves administering medication directly into the bloodstream through an IV drip. This method allows the medication to be absorbed quickly and efficiently, offering faster relief from symptoms than oral medications or topical creams.
The cutting-edge infusion therapies for psoriasis include Stelara infusions and Infliximab (Remicade or Avsola) infusions.
Stelara Infusions
Stelara is a brand of ustekinumab, a biological drug used to treat adults and children aged six and older with mild to severe plaque psoriasis. The treatment begins with a one-time intravenous (IV) infusion through a vein in the arm, with the amount of medication based on your body weight.
Stelara works by blocking certain natural proteins in your body – interleukin-12 and interleukin-23 – that cause inflammation, a common symptom of psoriasis. It’s an immunosuppressive drug that reduces inflammation in the body due to various autoimmune diseases.
The infusion is given at a certified infusion center and typically lasts approximately one hour. For maintenance doses, Stelara is administered as subcutaneous injections.
Infliximab Infusions
Infliximab, also known as Remicade or Avsola, is another biological drug used to treat psoriasis. Like Stelara, it is administered through an IV infusion. Infliximab works by blocking the action of a protein in the body called tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα).
Overproduction of TNFα in the body can lead to inflammation and damage to bones, cartilage, and tissue. By blocking the action of TNFα, infliximab can help reduce inflammation and other symptoms of psoriasis.
What to Expect During IV Therapy for Psoriasis
If you’re considering IV therapy for psoriasis, here’s what you can expect during the treatment. First, you’ll meet with a healthcare provider to determine if IV therapy is right for you. Then, a small needle will be inserted into a vein in your arm or hand.
You’ll sit or lie down during the treatment, which can last anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours. You may feel a slight pinch or pressure during needle insertion, but the treatment is generally painless.
Psoriasis Treatment in Atlanta, Georgia
While psoriasis is a chronic condition with no known cure, treatments like IV drip therapy can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. If you or your loved one is dealing with psoriasis, consider reaching out to a healthcare provider here at GI Care Infusion.
At our infusion center, we offer advanced infusion therapies that aim to reduce cell growth and inflammation associated with psoriasis, allowing patients to regain control over their lives.
Our cutting-edge infusion therapies include Stelara and Infliximab (Remicade or Avsola) infusions. These treatments reduce flare-ups and inflammation caused by psoriasis so you can focus on what’s most important – living your life to the fullest.
To learn more about us or to schedule a consultation, call us today at (470) 785-4616 or fill out our online appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
