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Guselkumab

Pronounced

"GUE-sel-KOO-mab"

Common brand names:

Tremfya

Uses

This medication is used to treat plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. It is also used to treat a certain bowel disease (ulcerative colitis). Guselkumab belongs to a class of drugs known as monoclonal antibodies. It works by blocking a certain natural substance in your body (interleukin-23) that may cause inflammation and swelling.

How to Use This Medication

Read the Medication Guide and Instructions for Use provided by your pharmacist before you start using this medication and each time you get a refill. Ask your health care professional how to prepare and use this medication. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Before treatment with this medication, your doctor will test you for tuberculosis (TB). Your doctor should also monitor you for symptoms of TB during and after treatment with this drug. If needed, treatment for tuberculosis or other infections should be given before receiving this medication.

Inject this medication under the skin as directed by your doctor. The injection is given in the upper arms, thighs, or abdomen (except for a 2-inch area around your belly button). If treating ulcerative colitis, the first 3 doses of this medication are given by injection into a vein by a healthcare professional. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Take the medication out of the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before you inject it to allow it to reach room temperature. Do not warm up this medication any other way (for example, do not heat it in the microwave, place it in hot water, or leave it in direct sunlight). Do not shake the medication. This product may contain small white or clear particles. Before using, check this product visually for cloudiness, large particles, or discoloration. If you see any of these things, do not use the liquid. Before injecting each dose, clean the skin you are going to inject into (the injection site) with rubbing alcohol. Change the injection site each time to lessen injury under the skin. Do not inject into skin that is tender, bruised, red, hard, thick, scaly, or affected by psoriasis. To lessen bruising, do not rub the injection site after a shot. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, mark your calendar with a reminder.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse.