Information for the public
Guselkumab (Tremfya) is available on the NHS. It is a possible treatment for active psoriatic arthritis (3 or more tender joints and 3 or more swollen joints) when disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) have not worked well enough, or are not tolerated. It is only for adults who have had 2 conventional DMARDs, and only if:
- they have had at least 1 biological DMARD, or
- medicines called tumour necrosis factor alpha inhibitors would normally be offered, but the person cannot have them because they could be harmful.
How well guselkumab is working should be checked from 16 weeks after you have started it. It should be stopped after 24 weeks if your psoriatic arthritis does not improve enough, unless your dermatologist thinks that it is working well enough for your skin.
When assessing how psoriatic arthritis affects your quality of life, healthcare professionals should take into account any disabilities or difficulties in communicating you might have.
If you are not eligible for guselkumab but are already having it, you should be able to continue until you and your doctor decide when best to stop.
Is this treatment right for me?
Your healthcare professionals should give you clear information, talk with you about your options and listen carefully to your views and concerns. Your family can be involved too, if you wish. Read more about making decisions about your care.
Questions to think about
- How well does it work compared with other treatments?
- What are the risks or side effects? How likely are they?
- How will the treatment affect my day-to-day life?
- What happens if the treatment does not work?
- What happens if I do not want to have treatment? Are there other treatments available?
Information and support
The NHS website may be a good place to find out more.
These organisations can give you advice and support:
- Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis Alliance, 01923 672837
- Psoriasis Association, 01604 251 620
You can also get support from your local Healthwatch.
NICE is not responsible for the quality or accuracy of any information or advice provided by these organisations.
ISBN: 978-1-4731-4717-1
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