Risankizumab-rzaa
Skyrizi
Skyrizi is a brand-name drug that has been approved by the FDA to treat various autoimmune disorders. This includes moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and moderate to severe active Crohn’s disease. Its active ingredient, risankizumab-rzaa, helps reduce inflammation and slow excessive skin cell production. This medication is suitable for adult use, but patients must understand the importance of following the dosage recommendations. Any alteration in the dosing schedule may result in severe adverse reactions. Since Skyrizi is a prescription medication, it is not available without a prescription label. Patients are advised not to share their medication with other individuals, even if they share the same condition. Doing so may increase the risk of side effects.
Product Overview
Skyrizi is a cutting-edge biologic medication designed to manage and treat various conditions, ranging from moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis. It contains the active ingredient risankizumab-rzaa, which targets and restricts interleukin-23 (IL-23), a key protein in the immune system responsible for inflammation and rapid skin cell growth. This prescription medication is FDA-approved, offering a safe and effective treatment option for individuals with such conditions.
Skyrizi is available in subcutaneous injection and IV infusion form of a pre-filled syringe, each form having its own strengths. The standard strength for adults is 75 mg/0.83 mL, and the typical dosing schedule is every 12 weeks after initial doses at weeks 0 and 4. By blocking IL-23, Skyrizi helps reduce inflammation and slow excessive skin cell production, leading to clearer skin and alleviation of symptoms such as itching and scaling.
Common side effects include upper respiratory infections, fatigue, and injection site reactions. Patients should be aware of potential serious side effects like infections and allergic reactions. It is essential to inform your medical practitioner of any existing conditions or medications to avoid adverse interactions. In case you miss a dose of your injection, take it as soon as possible unless the next dose is almost due; never double up doses. For overdoses, try to get immediate medical attention. These pre-filled injections and syringes should be stored in the refrigerator between temperatures 36°F and 46°F/2°C to 8°C & kept in their original carton to protect them from light. Always consult your medical provider for personalized medical advice before starting or stopping any medication.
What Are the Uses of Skyrizi?
It is used for the following purposes:
- Moderate to Severe Plaque Psoriasis: This autoimmune condition causes thick and scaly patches on the skin. It often appears on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back. Skyrizi is used in adults who could benefit from injections (system therapy) or phototherapy.
- Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): It is a form of arthritis usually associated with psoriasis. When an individual has PsA, they may experience swollen, stiff, and painful joints, which will further affect their skin and nails. Doctors prescribe Skyrizi to treat such conditions in adults. Patients with PsA can use the drug alone or together with other PsA drugs, known as DMARDs (disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs).
- Crohn’s Disease: This disease leads to inflammation in the digestive tract, causing various symptoms. This includes bloody stool, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fatigue. Skyrizi can also be used for the treatment of Crohn’s disease.
- Ulcerative Colitis: Skyrizi is being tested on people with ulcerative colitis (UC), and it has shown good results in other studies. Another study is testing Skyrizi on people with moderate to severe UC who didn’t get better with other biologic treatments.
What Are the Forms & Strengths of Skyriz?
Skyrizi comes in the following forms & strengths:
Subcutaneous Injection
- Injection Pen: 150 mg/mL
- Syringe: 75 mg/0.83 mL and 150 mg/mL
- On-Body Injector with Pre-filled Cartridge: 180 mg/1.2 mL and 360 mg/2.4 mL
IV Infusion
- Injection: 600 mg/10 mL
What Are the Recommended Dosage of Skyrizi?
The dosage recommendations for Skyrizi depend on several factors, including the type and severity of your medical condition and the form of medication you take. Generally, medical professionals prescribe a starting dose and gradually adjust the drug doses as needed. It is important to note that the dosage recommendations below are only for the average dose. So, if you have been prescribed a different dose, do not change it without consulting your medical practitioner.
Dosage for Plaque Psoriasis
Patients who have mild or moderate plaque psoriasis will be given subcutaneous injections. The typical dosage recommendations for this condition are as follows:
- Induction Phase: 150 mg at week 0 and week 4
- Maintenance Phase: 150 mg every 12 weeks
Dosage for Psoriatic Arthritis
Patients with active psoriatic arthritis will be given subcutaneous injections. The typical dosage recommendations for this condition are as follows:
- Induction Phase: 150 mg at week 0 and week 4
- Maintenance Phase: 150 mg every 12 weeks
Dosage for Crohn’s Disease
The recommended dosages are as follows:
- Induction Phase: 600 mg IV infusion at week 0, week 4, and week 8
- Maintenance Phase: 180 or 360 mg of subcutaneous injection at week 12, and then given every 8 weeks.
[Note: Remember, these recommendations may vary from person to person. Discuss it with your doctor, and they’ll customize your dosage accordingly.]
How to Use Skyrizi?
Before self-injecting Skyrizi for the first time and each time you get a refill, you should carefully read and understand the instructions given in the patient information leaflet that came along with your prescription and, if available, the medication guide. If you are unsure or have any doubts, ask your medical provider for detailed guidance on how to inject a Skyrizi pen or syringe.
- When administering the medication subcutaneously, your first injection will be given by a healthcare professional.
- After understanding the instructions and how to administer it, you can self-inject the medication through:
- Single-dose pre-filled injection pens
- Single-dose pre-filled syringes and
- Single-dose on-body injector with pre-filled cartridges
- Subcutaneous injections should be given into the abdomen (two inches away from the navel area) or thigh. If it is administered by a healthcare practitioner, they can also inject it into the upper arm.
- Follow the doses exactly as prescribed by your medical practitioner. Do not exceed or subceed the dosages without consulting an expert. Doing so may increase the risk of side effects.
- If you are using Skyrizi for Crohn’s treatment and ulcerative colitis, your starting doses will be given by a healthcare practitioner through IV infusion. After starting doses, you will receive a subcutaneous injection using the pre-filled cartridge with an on-body injector.
- When administering the injection yourself, use a different site each time. This will reduce the chances of soreness or redness.
- Avoid injecting the medication into bruised, tender, red, or injured skin.
- Do not shake your Skyrizi pen, pre-filled cartridge, on-body injector, or syringe.
- Do not remove the needle cover of your syringe or pen until you are ready to use the medication.
- Avoid reusing any needle or syringe.
[Note: Your doctor will decide the right amount for you based on your condition, following guidelines and studies on the drug. They’ll adjust it as needed over time.]
How Does Skyrizi Work?
Skyrizi is a biologic medication designed to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, PsA, and Crohn’s disease. It works by targeting & inhibiting a specific protein in the immune system called interleukin-23 (IL-23). IL-23 plays a key role in the inflammation and overproduction of skin cells seen in psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and Crohn’s disease. By blocking IL-23, Skyrizi helps reduce inflammation and slow down the extreme growth of skin cells, leading to clearer skin and relief from symptoms like itching and scaling. Administered as an injection under the skin, Skyrizi is typically given every 12 weeks after an initial dosing schedule. Always consult a medical practitioner for personalized medical advice when using this medication.
Important Safety Information for Using Skyrizi
What Are the Side Effects of Skyrizi?
Common Side Effects of Skyrizi: This medication can cause various side effects. These reactions are generally temporary, lasting from a few days to weeks. However, if the mentioned reactions persist for a long time and bother you, contact your doctor right away. Common side effects of Skyrizi may include:
- Fatigue: Some patients may experience fatigue, characterized by a persistent feeling of tiredness or lack of energy while using this medicine. This could be due to the body’s response to Skyrizi or the underlying condition being treated. You should maintain a balanced diet, engage in light physical exercise, and take adequate rest. If these symptoms worsen or persist, you should consult your medical provider for further evaluation.
- Upper respiratory infection: This medicine can increase susceptibility to upper respiratory infections, including the common cold. This happens because of Skyrizi’s immunosuppressive effects, which can reduce the body’s ability to fight infections. To decrease the risk, you should practice good hygiene, avoid coming into close contact with individuals who are sick, and stay up-to-date with vaccinations. If your symptoms persist or worsen, you should seek prompt medical assistance.
- Headache: Some users may have a headache while using Skyrizi. The exact cause is not well understood, but it may be related to the body’s response to the medicine. To help alleviate headaches, you can use over-the-counter pain relievers after consulting with your doctor and follow a fixed sleep schedule. Discuss headaches with your doctor or healthcare provider if they are severe or worsened.
- Fungal infections: Skyrizi can suppress the immune system, which can cause an increased risk of fungal infections, such as ringworm or athlete’s foot. To prevent these infections, you should keep your skin clear and dry, avoid sharing personal items, and wear breathable clothing. If you have an active fungal infection, using topical antifungal treatment can be effective, but consult your doctor if the infection does not get better.
- Injection site reaction: This is one of the most common side effects of injectable medicines, including Skyrizi. Its symptoms include redness, swelling, and pain at the injection site. These reactions usually range from mild to moderate and resolve on their own without medical assistance. To minimize discomfort, you should rotate injection sites each time you inject the medicine and
- Low red blood cells: This medicine can cause a decrease in the count of red blood cells in the body, leading to anemia. Its symptoms may include fatigue, shortness of breath, and pale skin. Undergo regular blood tests to measure your blood cell levels in the body. If symptoms of anemia develop, you should inform your doctor. They are most likely to adjust your treatment plan or recommend making dietary changes and using supplements to manage this condition.
- Fever: A fever may indicate an adverse infection or an inflammatory response to the medicine. You should monitor your temperature regularly, and if you develop a fever, you should get in touch with your doctor or medical professional and have it checked to rule out any serious underlying issues. You can use over-the-counter antipyretics to manage fever, but it is important to identify & address the root cause.
- Back pain: Some patients report back pain while using Skyrizi, which may be related to musculoskeletal strain or inflammation. To help relieve symptoms, you can try engaging in gentle stretching exercises, maintaining good posture, and using over-the-counter pain-relieving medicines. If back pain persists or worsens, seek medical advice promptly.
- Urinary tract infection: The immunosuppressive effect of this medication can increase the risk of UTIs. Its symptoms include a frequent urge to urinate, pain during urination, and cloudy urine. You should practice good personal hygiene, stay hydrated, and urinate regularly to prevent UTIs. If you suspect a UTI, immediately consult your doctor for appropriate treatment.
- Rash: Skin rashes may occur as an allergic reaction or as a side effect of the medication. If you develop a rash, avoid scratching and keep the area clean. You can use over-the-counter antihistamines or topical corticosteroids to provide relief. If you have any new or worsening rash, inform your doctor or healthcare provider to rule out serious reactions.
Serious Side Effects of Skyrizi: Besides the above common side effects, Skyrizi can also result in certain adverse reactions that may be life-threatening. If you notice such symptoms or signs, reach out to a medical professional. Serious side effects of Skyrizi may include:
- Severe allergic reactions: This medication can cause allergic reactions, which can become serious in some cases. You should discontinue using Skyrizi and seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of the following signs & symptoms of a serious allergic reaction:
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Swelling on the face, lips, mouth, and eyelids
- Difficulty breathing
- Throat tightness
- Chest tightness
- Skin rash
- Hives
- Itching
- Serious infections: Skyrizi suppresses the immune system, increasing the risk of infections, including serious infections. It can also cause or worsen existing infections. You should call your doctor if you develop symptoms of an allergic reaction. Its symptoms may include:
- Fever
- Sweats
- Chills
- Cough
- Blood in your mucus
- Warm, painful skin or sore on the body
- Weight loss
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain
- Burning sensation while urinating
- Frequent urination
- Liver problems: Liver issues or hepatoxicity can occur when you are using this medication. This is most likely to occur in people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBW), including Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Immediately let your doctor or healthcare provider know if you have any signs of hepatic issues. Its signs are:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Tiredness
- Abdominal pain
- Unusual rash
- Not feeling hungry
- Jaundice
- Dark urine
[Note: Remember, this list may not cover all possible side effects. Always consult with your healthcare giver for medical advice about side effects.]
Are There Any Warnings for Skyrizi?
Skyrizi can cause severe side effects in certain patients, or it may not be an ideal treatment option for specific populations due to their medical conditions. So, if you are using this medication, you should remain cautious. Its warnings are as follows:
- Infections: Patients using Skyrizi may have higher chances of developing infections. Upper respiratory tract and fungal infections are among the common ones in patients. So, if you have significant active injections, avoid using this medication until they are resolved or treated. For those with chronic or recurrent infections, consider the risks and benefits before prescribing Skyrizi. If you develop signs of infections, get medical help right away.
- Tuberculosis: If you have an active or a history of tuberculosis, do not use Skyrizi unless it is adequately treated. Patients should be screened for TB when considering treatment with this medication. Moreover, monitor for signs and symptoms of active TB during and after Skyrizi treatment.
- Administration of Vaccines: Avoid using live vaccines in patients undergoing Skyrizi treatment. Medications that interact with the immune system may increase the chances of infection following live vaccine administration. Complete all age-appropriate vaccinations before starting Skyrizi, according to current immunization guidelines. There is no data on the response to live or inactive vaccines in patients on Skyrizi.
What Are the FDA Boxed Warning for Skyrizi?
Boxed warnings, also called black-boxed warnings, are among the most stringent guidelines issued by the FDA. These warnings alert doctors and patients about the harmful effects of a particular drug, which can be life-threatening if overlooked. Skyrizi does not have any boxed warnings, meaning it is safe to use. However, its safety is based on the precautions you take. Therefore, if you are taking this drug, follow the instructions provided by your medical practitioner. If you have any concerns or noticed any unusual symptoms, it’s best to consult with an expert.
What Are the Skyrizi Precautions?
When considering treatment with Skyrizi, patients should discuss every risk and benefit with their medical practitioner. Here are some of the precautions that you can take before using Skyrizi to treat autoimmune diseases:
- Before using this medication, inform your medical provider if you have allergies or are allergic to any of Skyrizi’s ingredients. The product may contain certain inactive components that can cause severe allergic reactions.
- When considering treatment with Skyrizi, inform your doctor about your or your family’s medical history, especially of infections and tuberculosis.
- If you are undergoing surgery or any medical procedure, tell your surgeon or practitioner about the products you use. This includes all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal products.
- When used for Crohn’s disease, this medication may cause liver problems, which can be life-threatening. So, if you have problems like cirrhosis, talk to a medical practitioner. They may prescribe or suggest alternate options suiting your body’s needs. Moreover, if you are taking this medication, closely monitor your liver function before starting Skyrizi treatment.
- It is not known whether this medication is safe for use during pregnancy. While animal studies have shown risk to the fetus, it is not proven if the medicine will affect the human baby or not. Therefore, talk to your healthcare provider before making any decision. Discuss every risk and benefit with your practitioner and make a suitable plan.
- It is unclear if Skyrizi passes into the breastmilk or not. So, if you are using this medication or considering using it during breastfeeding, consult a medical professional.
What Are the Contraindications of Skyrizi?
There are no contraindications for this medication. However, patients are advised to use Skyrizi cautiously if they have a history of hypersensitivity reactions to the drug or any ingredients present in its formulation.
What If You Missed a Dose of Skyrizi?
Patients are usually advised not to miss their doses of any medication, and when it comes to treating autoimmune disorders, taking medication on time becomes more important. However, if somehow you forget to take a dose of Skyrizi:
- Take the missed dose as soon as possible unless your doctor advises otherwise.
- Call your doctor for specific instructions on what to do next.
- Remember not to take double doses.
- If it is almost time for your next dose, you may omit the missed dose and continue following your regular dosing schedule.
- Use medication apps or set phone reminders to avoid missing doses.
- Take your medication at the same time every day to get the most benefit from it.
- Make sure to get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine. This will ensure that you do not miss any doses.
- If you have any questions or concerns about it, ask your medical practitioner. They will suggest alternate options that suit your body’s needs.
[Note: If you have missed a dose of your medication and are unsure about when to take the next one, immediately consult your doctor or pharmacist.]
What Happens If You Take Too Much of Skyrizi?
While patients are educated enough not to take excessive amounts of their medication, there are times when they mistakenly overdose on their medication. In such cases, patients are advised not to panic and notice any unusual signs. If you have overdosed on Skyrizi and are experiencing unwanted symptoms like difficulty breathing and dizziness, immediately visit the nearest clinic or get medical assistance by calling 911.
[Note: If you consumed more than the recommended dose, get medical help right away or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.]
How to Store a Skyrizi?
- Store the medication in a refrigerator at a temperature of t 2°C to 8°C or 36°F to 46°F.
- Avoid freezing the medication.
- Keep the medication in its original container.
- Store the Skyrizi pen or syringe somewhere safe, away from the reach and sight of children and pets.
- Place a safety lock on your medication’s container to avoid poisoning your child, as there are many products on the market that are not child-resistant.
- Do not flush the medication down the toilet.
- Avoid keeping the product in damp or moist places like the bathroom or near the sink.
- Protect them from direct heat and sunlight.
- After using the product, keep them in a puncture-proof container and dispose of them.
- Avoid heating the medication in a microwave or with hot water.
- Discard the medication if the liquid has been frozen.
- If your medication is not clear or light yellow, avoid using it and replace the product.
- Do not use a medication if its expiration date has passed. The expiration date is the last day of the month mentioned on the back of the prescription label or carton.
- You should dispose of the medications in such a way that children and animals cannot consume them, as it may cause accidental overdose and death if someone else consumes them.
- Ask a medical professional or a pharmacist how to dispose of the product properly without damaging the environment.
- The best way to eliminate unwanted medications is to give them in the medicine take-back program.
[Note: Discuss with your healthcare professional about the proper disposal of any unused medicine and any questions you may have regarding its storage.]
What Medications Interact with Skyrizi?
Drug interactions occur when one or more medications are taken simultaneously. These interactions can either raise the risk of developing side effects in certain patients or affect the functioning of one of the drugs. Either way, it results in adverse reactions. Therefore, patients need to be aware of the drugs that may interact with their Skyrizi medication. Below are some of the drugs that can interact with Skyrizi (risankizumab-rzaa):
- Abrocitinib
- Adalimumab
- Anakinra
- Anifrolumab
- Baricitinib
- Belimumab
- Canakinumab
- Cladribine
- Deucravacitinib
- Denosumab
- Etanercept
- Etrasimod
- Efalizumab
- Fexinidazole
- Fingolimod
- Fruquintinib
- Golimumab
- Infliximab
- Leflunomide
- Lurbinectedin
- Melphalan
- Nadofaragene firadenovec
- Natalizumab
- Ozanimod
- Ocrelizumab
- Omacetaxine
- Ponesimod
- Quizartinib
- Ritlecitinib
- Siponimod
- Teriflunomide
- Tofacitinib
- Ublituximab
- Upadacitinib
- Ustekinumab
- Voclosporin
What Are the Other Skyrizi Interactions?
Besides drugs, Skyrizi has some disease interactions, too, which are as follows:
- Hepatic/renal
- Infections
- TB infection
- Vaccinations
[Note: This isn’t a complete list, and there could be other drugs that interact with Skyrizi. Make sure to tell your doctor about any prescription, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal products you’re taking.]
What Are the Skyrizi Alternatives?
People usually take alternative drugs for many reasons. In some cases, the prescribed medication may not be an ideal option for them due to their medical conditions. On the other hand, they may not achieve the results they are aiming for. Therefore, you should talk to a medical professional before you start a particular treatment or if you want to change your medication. They may help you decide which medication is best suited for you. Some of the alternatives of Skyrizi are as follows:
[Note: Your doctor will choose what’s best for you. Don’t use any of these alternative medications without consulting your healthcare provider. Taking them by yourself may cause serious side effects.]
Skyrizi Cost & Coupons
It is important to note that Skyrizi’s cost is not the same everywhere. The actual price of these pre-filled pens and syringes depends on several factors, including your insurance plan, location, and the pharmacies you use. Skyrizi for psoriasis treatment, with its therapeutic qualities, can be expensive for certain patients. Here, insurance coverage plays a significant role. You can order Skyrizi injections at affordable rates with an insurance coverage plan. However, not all drugs/medications are covered under the insurance plan. If you are residing in America and searching for affordable pharmacies to manage your medication’s cost, reach out to Polar Bear Meds. Here you can buy Skyrizi online from Canada in the USA at discounted rates. Moreover, first-time buyers can use the Skyrizi coupon code WELCOMEPB10 to receive a 10% discount on their first order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Skyrizi hard on the liver?
Skyrizi is generally not known to cause significant liver damage. However, as with any medication, it is important to monitor for potential side effects. Before starting Skyrizi, inform your healthcare provider about any pre-existing liver conditions. Routine liver function tests may be recommended to ensure the medication is safe for you. Always follow your doctor’s guidance regarding monitoring and potential side effects.
Does using Skyrizi medication cause hair loss?
Hair loss is not among the commonly reported side effects of Skyrizi. The medication primarily targets the immune system to reduce inflammation and control psoriasis symptoms. However, individual reactions to medications can vary. If you experience any unusual side effects, including hair loss, it is important to consult your healthcare practitioner for personalized advice and to determine the appropriate course of action.
Is Skyrizi an antibiotic medication?
No, Skyrizi is not an antibiotic. It is a biologic medication specifically designed to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis by targeting interleukin-23 (IL-23), a protein involved in the inflammatory process. Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections; on the other hand, Skyrizi modulates the immune system to manage autoimmune conditions. Always consult your healthcare provider for accurate information about your medications.
Can I take Skyrizi injection at home?
Yes, Skyrizi can be administered at home. It is available as a pre-filled syringe for subcutaneous injection. After receiving proper training from a medical professional, patients or their caregivers can self-administer the injection. It is crucial to stick to the prescribed dosing schedule and instructions for storage and handling. If you have any concerns or questions about the injection process, consult your healthcare provider.
What happens if I suddenly stop using Skyrizi?
If you stop using Skyrizi suddenly, your psoriasis symptoms may return or worsen over time. The medication helps control inflammation and skin cell production, so discontinuing it can lead to a flare-up of the condition. Always talk to a healthcare professional before making any changes to your medication schedule to ensure a safe and effective treatment plan.
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