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Risankizumab-Rzaa

Pronounced

"RIS-an-KIZ-ue-mab"

Common brand names:

Skyrizi

Uses

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

How to Use This Medication

Read the Medication Guide and the Instructions for Use leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using risankizumab and each time you get a refill. 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 TB or other infections should be given before using this medication.

This medication is given by injection under your skin as directed by your doctor. If treating Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, the first 3 doses of this medication is given by injection into a vein by a healthcare professional. The dosage and treatment schedule are based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Follow your doctor's directions carefully.

If you are using this medication at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional and the product instructions. Wash your hands before using this medication. Before use, take risankizumab out of the refrigerator and let it warm to room temperature. If you are using the prefilled syringe, remove it from the refrigerator 15 to 30 minutes before you inject it. If you are using the pen, remove it from the refrigerator 30 to 90 minutes before you inject it. If you are using the on-body injector, remove it from the refrigerator 45 to 90 minutes before you use it. Do not heat this medication any other way, such as by heating in the microwave or placing in hot water. Keep the medication in the carton until ready to use. Do not shake the medication. The medication should be clear or yellow and may contain a few clear or white 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 injection site with rubbing alcohol. Change the injection site each time to lessen injury under the skin. This medication can be injected into the thighs or abdomen (at least 2 inches from your belly button). The prefilled syringe or pen may also be injected into the upper arms. Do not inject the drug into areas of the skin with scars or stretch marks or into skin that is irritated, sore, bruised, red, hardened, or affected by psoriasis. If you are using the on-body injector, the medication is injected over 5 minutes. To lessen bruising, do not rub the injection site after a shot. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely. Do not reuse syringes, on-body injectors, or cartridges.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. It may help to mark your calendar with a reminder.

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