Safety of biological therapies for psoriasis: effects on reproductive potential and outcomes in male and female patients

Br J Dermatol. 2014 Sep;171(3):485-91. doi: 10.1111/bjd.13060. Epub 2014 Aug 5.

Abstract

The effects of biological therapies for psoriasis on pregnancy outcomes and lactation, and male fertility and mutagenicity are common concerns in the clinical setting. There is relatively little evidence to guide the clinician and patient. Here, we review the safety profile of the commonly used biological therapies for psoriasis in individuals of reproductive potential. Safety data were derived from large-scale registries, adverse event reporting databases, clinical trials and case reports. We assessed the effect of each therapy on adverse pregnancy outcomes including congenital malformations, and lactation with maternal administration, and male fertility and potential mutagenicity with paternal administration. We provide applicable guidance to inform clinician and patient before and after conception.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Abnormalities, Drug-Induced / etiology
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / adverse effects
  • Biological Factors / adverse effects*
  • Biological Therapy / adverse effects
  • Breast Feeding
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infertility, Male / chemically induced*
  • Lactation / drug effects
  • Male
  • Mutagens / adverse effects
  • Patient Safety
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications / drug therapy*
  • Pregnancy Outcome
  • Psoriasis / drug therapy*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Biological Factors
  • Mutagens