Alefacept

Alefacept is an immunosuppressive drug that is used to treat moderate to severe forms of the skin disease plaque psoriasis. It is marketed in the United States as Amevive, but it is not licensed for use in the European Union. Its manufacturer is Biogen Idec.

Alefacept is a protein that must be given by injection into a muscle or a vein.

Alefacept should not be used in patients with HIV, as it can cause dangerous reductions in CD4 cell counts. This can speed up HIV disease progression or increase complications.

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This content was checked for accuracy at the time it was written. It may have been superseded by more recent developments. NAM recommends checking whether this is the most current information when making decisions that may affect your health.