Skyrizi

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Skyrizi, and what conditions does it treat?

   Skyrizi is a prescription medication used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, active psoriatic arthritis, and moderately to severely active Crohn’s disease in adults. It’s a biologic drug that works by targeting interleukin-23 (IL-23), a protein that plays a role in inflammation.

2. How does Skyrizi work?

   Skyrizi contains risankizumab-rzaa, an IL-23 antagonist. It binds to the p19 subunit of the IL-23 protein, inhibiting its interaction with the IL-23 receptor. This helps reduce inflammation by preventing the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, thereby improving symptoms associated with psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and Crohn’s disease.

3. What is the recommended dosage schedule for Skyrizi?

   The dosage schedule varies depending on the condition being treated. For plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, the recommended dose is 150 mg administered subcutaneously at weeks 0 and 4, followed by maintenance doses every 12 weeks. For Crohn’s disease, an initial intravenous infusion of 600 mg is given at weeks 0, 4, and 8, followed by a maintenance dose of either 180 mg or 360 mg subcutaneously every 8 weeks.

4. Can I self-administer Skyrizi injections at home?

   Yes, after proper training, patients can self-inject Skyrizi using prefilled syringes or pens. However, the first injection should be administered by a healthcare professional to ensure proper technique. For patients with Crohn’s disease, the initial doses are given as IV infusions by a healthcare provider.

5. What are the side effects of Skyrizi?

   Common side effects of Skyrizi include upper respiratory infections, headache, fatigue, injection site reactions, and fungal infections like athlete’s foot or ringworm. Most side effects are mild and temporary, but it’s important to contact a healthcare provider if they persist or worsen.

6. Is Skyrizi safe to use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

   The safety of Skyrizi during pregnancy or breastfeeding is not well established. Skyrizi may pose risks to the fetus, as observed in animal studies, so it’s important to discuss with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. The presence of Skyrizi in breast milk is also unknown, and mothers should consult their doctor before using Skyrizi while breastfeeding.

7. Can Skyrizi interact with other medications or vaccines?

   Skyrizi may interact with live vaccines, increasing the risk of infections due to its immunosuppressive nature. Patients should complete all necessary vaccinations before starting treatment with Skyrizi and avoid live vaccines during treatment. There are no known significant interactions with common medications, but it’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider about any potential drug interactions.

8. What precautions should be taken before starting Skyrizi treatment?

   Before starting Skyrizi, patients should be screened for tuberculosis (TB) and other infections. All age-appropriate vaccinations should be completed prior to initiation. Liver enzymes and bilirubin levels should be checked, especially in patients with Crohn’s disease, due to potential liver side effects. Inform your doctor about any chronic infections or history of recurrent infections.

9. How should Skyrizi be stored and handled?

   Skyrizi should be stored in its original packaging in a refrigerator at temperatures between 36°F and 46°F (2°C to 8°C) to protect it from light. Do not freeze or shake the medication. Before use, let Skyrizi reach room temperature away from direct sunlight for at least 15 to 90 minutes, depending on the form of the injection.

10. Can alcohol be consumed while taking Skyrizi?

    There are no specific restrictions on alcohol consumption while taking Skyrizi. However, patients are advised to drink alcohol in moderation and consult with their healthcare provider, especially if they have liver conditions or other health concerns.