Off-label uses of ustekinumab

Vaccinations in Selected Immune-Related Diseases Treated with Biological Drugs and JAK Inhibitors-Literature Review and Statement of Experts from Polish Dermatological Society

The growing use of biological drugs in immune-mediated chronic diseases has undoubtedly revolutionized their treatment. Yet, the topic of vaccinations in this group of patients still raises many concerns and implies many therapeutic problems that require discussion and standardization of management. The aim of this literature review is to present current knowledge regarding safety and efficacy of vaccinations in dermatological and rheumatological patients treated with biological drugs and JAK inhibitors. Additionally, this article provides recommendation from experts of the Polish Dermatological Society about proper use of vaccinations during therapy with biologics. Generally, all live attenuated vaccines are contraindicated during immunosuppressive/immunomodulatory therapy. If there is need, they should be administered long enough prior to the therapy or after cessation. Yet, inactivated vaccines mostly can be safely used, but the problem in this case is the effectiveness of the vaccination. Most studies report that the immune response in patients on biologics after administration of different inactivated vaccines is similar to or even better than in the control group. Thus, the importance of vaccination among patients on biologics must be emphasized to reduce omissions and the fear of possible side effects or insufficient post-vaccination response.

Adalimumab, Ustekinumab, and Secukinumab in the Management of Hidradenitis Suppurativa: A Review of the Real-Life Experience

To date, adalimumab (ADA) is the only biotechnology drug approved for the management of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), an inflammatory skin condition. However, it quickly became apparent that the efficacy of adalimumab in daily practice was highly variable. In our review, we highlighted the current evidence from literature on the use of biologics in HS in a real-life setting, particularly adalimumab, secukinumab and ustekinumab. Data on the effectiveness and safety of biologic drugs in HS management have been analyzed. Even if the results are promising, more studies are needed. In our opinion, the armamentarium of drugs for HS management is increasing, and treatment will be based on a tailored-tail approach, minimizing the risk of adverse events. In this context, we want to point out the reported effectiveness and safety data concerning adalimumab, ustekinumab and secukinumab as well as ixekizumab.