SKYRIZI (Risankizumab)

What is this medication?

SKYRIZI (Risankizumab)
Antipsoriatic Agent; Interleukin-23 Inhibitor; Monoclonal Antibody

SKYRIZI (Risankizumab) is an interleukin-23 antagonist indicated for the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis in adults who are candidates for systemic therapy or phototherapy.

How does this medication work? 

SKYRIZI (Risankizumab) is a human IgG1 monoclonal antibody which selectively binds interleukin (IL)-23, thereby inhibiting its interaction with the IL-23 receptor.  This results in inhibition of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines release.

How should I take this medication? 

SQ: Inject two consecutive injections subcutaneously (75 mg each) for a total dose of 150 mg at weeks 0, 4, and then every 12 weeks thereafter.  

How to Take: Administer the two consecutive injections subcutaneously at different anatomic locations, such as thighs, abdomen, or back of upper arms. Intended for use under supervision of a health care professional; self-injection may occur after proper training (except back of upper arms).  Do not inject into areas where the skin is tender, bruised, red, hard, or affected by psoriasis.

What should I watch for while using this medication? 

Before starting SKYRIZI (Risankizumab) make sure your physician is aware of any allergies or medications you currently take, if you are pregnant, or breastfeeding. Risankizumab use has been associated with rare but serious adverse events such as increased risk of infection and activation of latent tuberculosis infection.  Patients should be evaluated for tuberculosis prior to initiating therapy.

What size needle does this medication use?

SKYRIZI
Prefilled syringe: 27-gauge, ½ inch needle

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose at home, try to have it as soon as you remember. If you’re receiving the maintenance dose, SKYRIZI is given every 12 weeks. So if you miss a dose, you can have it a few days after you were supposed to. Then you can have your next dose as originally scheduled.

If you miss an appointment for a dose, contact your doctor’s office. The staff can reschedule your appointment.

How should I store this medication?

Keep out of the reach of children at all times. Store in the refrigerator (at 2°C to 8°C). Do not freeze. Keep in the original carton to protect it from light. The pre-filled syringe can be taken out of the fridge 15 to 30 minutes before injected, provided it is kept in the carton.

What are the possible side effects of using this medication?

Antibody development, infection, upper respiratory tract infection, headache, fatigue.

Note this is not a complete list of side effects for SKYRIZI (Risankizumab), only common ones.