Alefacept

Alefacept is a drug used to treat moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. It comes in the form of an injection that is given once a week for 12 weeks. Skipping doses or not finishing the 12-week course will likely reduce the drug's effectiveness, so be sure to take it exactly as prescribed. Cough, sore throat, and dizziness are some of the product's possible side effects.

What Is Alefacept?

Alefacept (Amevive®) is a prescription medication approved for treating moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis in adults. It is a "biologic" medication that is given as a weekly intramuscular injection for 12 weeks. Additional courses may be repeated, with at least 12 weeks between courses.
 
(Click What Is Alefacept Used For? for more information on this topic, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Are There Side Effects?

Just like any medicine, alefacept may cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well.
 
If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can be treated easily by you or your healthcare provider. Serious reactions are less common.
 
Some of the most common side effects seen with alefacept include but are not limited to:
 
(Click Side Effects of Alefacept to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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