Should I start on biologics?

We’ve been home since April 3rd - our first vacation since his diagnosis. Since returning, his skin has begun to swell, itch, and flare, with layers of thick scales building on top of each other. He scratches until the patches become rough and tender. At night, even in his sleep, you can hear it - the quiet, constant sound of him scratching.

April 20th was a Monday, and the weather had turned colder than it had been in recent days - cold, rainy, 35 degrees. At 9:36 a.m., the school nurse called:
“Hi, this is Ms. Jenn, the school nurse. Is this Lucas’s mom? Lucas is complaining of physical pain throughout his body, and he seems to be bleeding from one of his psoriasis patches. Can someone come pick him up?”

This isn’t an uncommon call to receive. When the weather turns colder than usual, he often flares and needs medical attention. I made an appointment with his dermatologist, and we will begin phototherapy again this Friday, May 8th, twice a week. We have to do what we can to help him find some comfort. The doctor also discussed biologics again.

I am currently looking into two that have been recommended: Secukinumab (Cosentyx), approved for children aged 6 and older, and Ixekizumab (Taltz), also approved for children aged 6 and older (typically weighing at least 25 kg). I’m deeply concerned about both of these medications - if I’m honest, about all medications - because this isn’t a short-term treatment. This is a lifelong journey, and that brings its own weight of uncertainty.

Has anyone reviewed the safety summaries for these medications? I’ve been trying to learn as much as I can.

Is the treatment worth the risk? Will his psoriasis affect his quality of life long-term? Should I move forward with this? These questions - and so many more - run constantly through my mind.