The labeling for Raptiva (efalizumab injection, from Genentech) has been updated to reflect FDA reports of serious infections in some psoriasis patients. The boxed warning highlights the risk of life-threatening infections including bacterial sepsis, viral meningitis, invasive fungal disease, progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), and other opportunistic infections.

Raptiva is an immunosuppressant indicated for the treatment of moderate-to-severe chronic plaque psoriasis in adults who are candidates for systemic or phototherapy.

For more information visit www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/NEWS/2008/NEW01905.html.