A note to our patients using immunoreactive and/or biologic agents during the COVID-19 outbreak

Due to the recent pandemic, there is concern about the immunomodulatory effects of biologic therapy in the context of coronavirus (COVID-19). Currently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have no guidelines on the use of biologics during the pandemic. In addition, there is no data on the specific risk of COVID-19 infection with biologic therapy.

The following are the immunoreactive and biologic medications most prescribed by our office:

  • Adalimumab (Humira)
  • Etanercept(Enbrel)
  • Ustekinumab(Stelara)
  • Abatacept (Orencia)
  • Brodalumab (Siliq)
  • Certolizumab pegol (Cimzia)
  • Guselkumab (Tremfya)
  • Ixekizumab (Taltz)
  • Risankizumab-rzaa (Skyrizi)
  • Secukinumab (Cosentyx)
  • Tofacitinib (Xeljanz)
  • Dupilumab (Dupixent)
  • Apremilast (Otezla)
  • Acitretin (Soriatane)
  • Methotrexate

Patients on biologic who have NOT tested positive or exhibited signs/symptoms of COVID-19: There is insufficient evidence to recommend discontinuation of biologics at this time. We recommend that you stay on your medication and engage in aggressive personal protection measures. If you have specific concerns please call our office to discuss.

Patients on biologic therapy who have tested positive for COVID-19: We recommend you discontinue or postpone your biologic therapy until you recover from COVID-19. Please call our office so we can make sure you are prepared in case of dermatologic flare.

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