Skyrizi ^*

Skyrizi can work relatively quickly to improve psoriasis symptoms. In clinical trials, many patients saw a significant reduction in skin plaques within the first 16 weeks of treatment. Some people may even notice improvements after their first few doses. Complete skin clearance can be achieved by many patients who continue with the prescribed maintenance dosing schedule. Results vary from person to person.

Skyrizi is not a type of chemotherapy. It is a biologic drug called a monoclonal antibody. Chemotherapy is a broad treatment that targets rapidly dividing cells throughout the body, including healthy ones. In contrast, Skyrizi is a targeted therapy. It works by blocking a specific protein (IL-23) involved in the inflammation process of certain autoimmune diseases, leaving most of the immune system unaffected.

Skyrizi can lower your body's ability to fight infections. If you have a cold or another infection, you should tell your doctor before taking your next dose. They may recommend waiting until you have recovered before you continue your treatment. It is important not to take Skyrizi if you have an active infection unless your doctor gives you permission to do so.

If you miss a dose of Skyrizi, you should take it as soon as you remember. After that, you can resume your regular dosing schedule. It is important to contact your healthcare provider for guidance. They can tell you exactly when to take your next dose to ensure the treatment remains effective and to keep you on the correct schedule moving forward.

The Skyrizi maintenance dose is administered as a subcutaneous injection, which means it is injected into the fatty tissue just under the skin. Common injection sites include the front of the thighs or the abdomen. A healthcare provider will train you on how to properly self-inject using the prefilled pen. The initial induction doses for Crohn's and colitis are given as an intravenous (IV) infusion by a professional.

Skyrizi is not commonly associated with weight gain as a direct side effect. Clinical studies for Skyrizi did not list weight gain as a frequent adverse event. However, for conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, effective treatment can lead to better nutrient absorption and reduced symptoms like diarrhea. This may result in a healthy and appropriate weight gain as your body heals and recovers.

Skyrizi does not have a direct interaction with alcohol. However, alcohol can sometimes worsen the underlying conditions that Skyrizi treats, such as psoriasis or Crohn's disease. It can also put extra stress on your liver. Because Skyrizi can also affect the liver in some cases, it may be wise to limit alcohol consumption. Always discuss your alcohol use with your doctor before starting treatment.

Yes, your doctor will perform several tests before you start Skyrizi. This medication can increase the risk of infections, so your doctor will likely screen you for tuberculosis (TB) and other underlying infections. They may also perform blood tests to check your liver function and overall health to ensure the medication is safe for you to take. Regular monitoring may continue during treatment.

Skyrizi pens must be stored in the refrigerator between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). Do not freeze the medication. Keep it in its original carton to protect it from light. Before injecting, you may take the pen out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 to 30 minutes. Do not try to warm it in any other way.

Skyrizi is considered a targeted immunosuppressant. Unlike general immunosuppressants that weaken the entire immune system, Skyrizi is a biologic that works selectively. It blocks a specific protein, IL-23, which is involved in inflammation. This helps to calm the overactive immune response that causes disease symptoms, but it does so in a very focused way, which may lead to fewer systemic side effects than broader immunosuppressants.

The Skyrizi induction dose is a higher, more frequent initial dose used to get the inflammation under control quickly. For Crohn's and colitis, this is done via IV infusion. The maintenance dose is a lower, less frequent dose given to keep the symptoms from returning long-term. This is usually a subcutaneous injection that you can do at home. This two-phase approach helps to achieve and then sustain remission.

Skyrizi is often used on its own as a monotherapy. Combining Skyrizi with other powerful systemic therapies or biologics is generally not recommended as it could increase the risk of serious side effects, especially infections. However, your doctor may approve the use of topical treatments like corticosteroids or moisturizers for your skin. Always follow your doctor’s advice on what medications can be used together.

Skyrizi does not cure Crohn's disease, as there is currently no known cure for it. However, Skyrizi can be very effective at managing the condition. It works to reduce the underlying inflammation in the digestive tract, which can lead to a significant reduction in symptoms and even achieve long-term remission. This helps improve quality of life, but it is a treatment, not a cure.

A serious allergic reaction to Skyrizi requires immediate medical attention. Key signs include swelling of the face, eyelids, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat. Other symptoms are trouble breathing, wheezing, feeling faint or dizzy, and a skin rash or hives. While rare, these reactions can be life-threatening. You should call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room if you experience any of these symptoms after your injection.