indication

For the treatment of adult patients with moderate to severe chronic plaque psoriasis, who are candidates for phototherapy or systemic therapy.

pharmacology

Lymphocyte activation and trafficking to skin play a role in the pathophysiology of chronic plaque psoriasis. In psoriatic skin, ICAM-1 cell surface expression is upregulated on endothelium and keratinocytes. Raptiva inhibits the binding of LFA-1 to the intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), thereby inhibiting the adhesion of leukocytes to other cell types.

mechanism of action

Efalizumab binds to CD11a, a subunit of leukocyte function antigen-1 (LFA-1), which is expressed on all leukocytes. As a result efalizumab decreases cell surface expression of CD11a.

absorption

Average efalizumab bioavailability following subcutaneous administration was estimated at 30 to 50%.

half life

5 days

drug interactions

Ergonovine: The antiretroviral agent may increase the ergot derivative

Trastuzumab: Trastuzumab may increase the risk of neutropenia and anemia. Monitor closely for signs and symptoms of adverse events.