The Consumer’s Guide to JAK Inhibitors for Psoriasis

Everything you need to know about this one-of-a-kind treatment for plaque psoriasis.

Medically Reviewed

F rom topicals and light therapy to systemic medications, a variety of treatments are available to treat psoriasis. Because each option is unique, some will work better for you than others.

A medication that falls under a class of drugs called Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in people 18 and older. Even though this class of drugs has been used to treat other conditions for years, it’s new to the psoriasis treatment landscape.

How This JAK Inhibitor Works for Psoriasis


“The approved pill for psoriasis distinguishes itself from other JAK inhibitors by being classified in a separate category called ‘selective TYK2 inhibitors,’” says Jeffrey Sobell, MD, a dermatologist at Tufts Medical Center in Boston. “This is the first and only medication that currently carries this designation.”

6 Essential Facts About JAK Inhibitors for Psoriasis

Is a JAK Inhibitor Right For You?

5 Questions Your Should Be Asking About JAK Inhibitors for Psoriasis

Here’s what your doctor wants you to know about this new treatment.

Next Steps: Making Psoriasis Treatment Decisions

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Congratulations!

You’ve learned a lot about JAK inhibitors for psoriasis. So, what’s next?

Take some extra time to absorb all of this information and decide if a JAK inhibitor is something you might want to consider.

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Self-Reflection

Before your next appointment, think about your current treatment plan and how well it’s controlling your psoriatic arthritis.

  1. Have you tried other psoriasis treatments?
  2. Are you able to follow your treatment regimen exactly as prescribed?
  3. Has it improved your psoriasis symptoms as well as you had hoped?
  4. Are you downplaying any symptoms or side effects with your doctor?
  5. Are you looking to see if other treatments may help you better manage your condition?
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Doctor Discussion

If you’re curious about trying a JAK inhibitor for psoriasis, here are a few conversation starters for your next doctor’s appointment.

  1. Do you think it’s possible for me to gain better control of my psoriasis?
  2. Which medication(s) would you recommend, and why?
  3. Am I a good candidate for a JAK inhibitor?
  4. If so, what can I expect while taking one?
  5. How often should I monitor the progress of my treatment?