If you have been diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis and medication has not helped the conditions, then you may qualify for our research study. Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory and chronic condition that affects those with psoriasis. Not everyone with psoriasis develops this condition. In fact, only 15 percent of those with psoriasis develop this arthritis.
For those who do not know, psoriasis is a skin disease that develops scaly red and white patches. Psoriatic arthritis can appear before the skin disease. Those between the ages of 30 and 50 are the most susceptible to the condition. Men and women are both at risk of the condition.
Psoriatic arthritis commonly affects the hands, feet, knees, elbows, and neck. However, this condition can affect any joint in the body. This arthritis does go through flares like lupus. The condition may seem absent at times, while at other times, it is worse than ever.
Psoriatic Arthritis Treatment
There are many medications available to those who have psoriatic arthritis. Most medications aim to reduce inflammation and pain. Some can even slow the process of the condition and preserve the bone around the joints. Additionally, there are medications targeted at the immune system itself. Unfortunately, these medications are not enough for everyone.
40 percent of psoriatic arthritis patients do not respond to the medication options. Patients may see some change, but it is not enough. Research studies aim to improve the quality of present and future patients. Studies provide a wider approach to treating a disease or condition. Patients who participate in this study will be introduced to innovative treatment options.
KEEPsAKE 1 and KEEPsAKE 2
The name of the two research studies are KEEPsAKE 1 and KEEPsAKE 2. We want to learn more about the effectiveness of an investigational drug. These studies are important to find more effective medications for 40 percent of people who do receive adequate results from current medications.
These two studies will include 420 people from around the world. The approximate length of this study is 4 years and 5 months for follow-up. Patients who fit the qualifications will be placed in one of two groups randomly. Participants will only be in these groups for 24 weeks.
One group will receive the investigational drug, and the other will receive a placebo. The placebo will look like the real drug, and patients will not know which is the real medication. After 24 weeks, everyone in the study will receive the real medication.
The first 40 weeks or 10 months will require appointments with the research clinic every 4 weeks. An 8-week break will occur between appointments only once. After the first 40 weeks are over, appointments will take place every 12 weeks.
Each appointment will feature health checkups and questions related to your daily life with psoriatic arthritis. Various activities will also be required for each appointment. The study doctor can give you more information on these.
Do you qualify?
Not everyone with psoriatic arthritis will qualify for this study. There are a number of criteria patients must meet. You can find the full list below.
- 18 years or older
- Symptoms occurred at least 6 months ago
- Currently have swollen or tender joints
- You now have at least 1 patch of psoriasis on your skin or your nails
- Prescribed treatments for psoriatic arthritis for at least 12 weeks but they are not working, and you cannot tolerate the side effects
If you are unsure if you qualify, then give Advanced Rheumatology of Houston a call today. Reach the clinic at (281) 766-7886. Dr. Brionez can help patients determine if they qualify for the KEEPsAKE research studies.