Alefacept.
black triangle Alefacept (recombinant human LFA-3/IgG(1) fusion protein) is a novel biologic agent that selectively targets memory-effector CD45RO+ T lymphocytes, implicated in psoriasis pathogenesis. black triangle In placebo-controlled studies, once-weekly administration of alefacept 7.5mg intravenous (IV) and 15mg intramuscular (IM) for 12 weeks significantly improved psoriasis and produced durable clinical improvements in patients with moderate-to-severe chronic plaque psoriasis who responded. black triangle At any time during the first 12-week course of alefacept (followed by 12 weeks' treatment-free follow-up), approximately 30% of patients achieved the primary endpoint of a > or =75% improvement in psoriasis, while approximately 55% achieved a > or =50% improvement; the corresponding results during a second course were approximately 40% and 70%, respectively. black triangle Alefacept therapy significantly improved quality of life in responders, who reported improved perception of overall health, increased energy levels, and enhanced emotional well-being. black triangle One or two 12-week courses of IV alefacept 7.5 mg/week and IM alefacept 15 mg/week were similarly well tolerated, with a safety/tolerability profile similar to placebo. No organ-based toxicity or disease rebound after alefacept withdrawal has been reported. black triangle Alefacept exhibits a low potential for immunogenicity and has no clinical effects indicative of generalized immunosuppression. No opportunistic infections have been reported, nor is there evidence of an increased risk of malignancies.