Biological therapies

We offer biological therapies to eligible patients, following NICE guidance. Consultants prescribe these treatments.

What are biological therapies?

Biological therapies, also called biologics or biotherapy, use substances from living things to help the body fight disease.

Unlike regular medicines made from chemicals, biologics are made from proteins, sugars, or nucleic acids. They target specific parts of the immune system.

How do biologics work?

Biologics can:

• Target immune system cells or proteins that cause swelling.
• Block signals that make your immune system overactive.
• Reduce swelling and slow disease progression.
• Ease pain, tiredness, and stiffness.

For example, in rheumatoid arthritis, biologics may block a protein called TNF-alpha, which causes joint swelling.

What conditions are they used for?

Biological therapies treat autoimmune diseases such as:

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Lupus
• Crohn’s disease
• Psoriasis

Possible side effects

While biologics can be highly effective, they may cause side effects such as:

• Increased risk of infections
• Injection site reactions
• Allergic responses
• Rare changes in blood counts or liver function

Your healthcare team will check you often to manage any risks.

Need advice?

If you want to know more about biologics or your treatment, talk to your rheumatology team or pharmacist.