Browse the corpus

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects approximately 2% of the U.S. population, with plaque-type psoriasis being the most prevalent form. Characterized by erythematous plaques with mica-like scaling and sharply defined borders, lesions frequently appear on the elbows, knees, gluteal cleft, and scalp. These lesions may be pruritic, expand slowly, and persist for extended periods of time. Up to 30% of individuals with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis, which presents in 5 distinct subtypes. Ixekizumab is an FDA-approved treatment for adults with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who are candidates for systemic therapy or phototherapy, and it has established safety and efficacy in pediatric populations. This educational activity provides an overview of the clinical context for administering ixekizumab, including plaque-type psoriasis. This activity also discusses the drug’s mechanism of action, therapeutic applications, contraindications, clinically significant adverse reactions, and key monitoring parameters. Emphasis is placed on recognizing clinical considerations that inform appropriate therapeutic decision-making. This activity supports the interprofessional healthcare team in optimizing patient outcomes through informed prescribing and vigilant monitoring of patients with psoriasis who are receiving ixekizumab. Objectives: Determine the mechanism of action of ixekizumab. Compare the various therapeutic uses of ixekizumab. Assess the potential side effects of ixekizumab. Develop the importance of collaboration and coordination among interprofessional team members to enhance patient care when dosing and monitoring ixekizumab treatment for psoriasis. Access free multiple choice questions on this topic.

The interprofessional healthcare team must collaborate to ensure the safety and efficacy of ixekizumab therapy. The patient requires training on the correct self-administration and storage of ixekizumab; the clinician, nurse, or pharmacist provide this education. Patients may benefit well from hearing it from multiple providers to optimize therapy. Notably, the interprofessional team needs to monitor for signs of severe infection and exacerbation of inflammatory bowel disease. The pharmacist should verify the dosing and perform a drug interaction check. Nurses can monitor adverse events, assess treatment effectiveness on subsequent visits, and verify patient adherence to pharmacotherapy. Both nurses and pharmacists must maintain an open line of communication with the prescribing clinician to report or discuss any concerns regarding ixekizumab therapy or the patient's medication regimen. Open interprofessional communication within healthcare teams is necessary to optimize patient outcomes and minimize adverse events.