What Is Ixekizumab, And How Does It Help With Psoriasis?

Author Name : Dr. Amit Kumar Sinha

Pharmacology

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Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes red, itchy, scaly patches all over the body. For many, this can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. Fortunately, there are treatments available to help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life for those living with psoriasis. One such treatment is ixekizumab, a prescription medicine approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat adult patients who have moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. In this blog post, we will discuss what ixekizumab is, how it works and how it can help those with psoriasis.

What is Ixekizumab?

Ixekizumab is a biologic medication that is used to treat psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. It is a humanized monoclonal antibody that targets the interleukin-17A (IL-17A) cytokine. Ixekizumab was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in March 2016, and it is marketed under the brand name Taltz.

Ixekizumab is given as an injection under the skin. The usual dose is 80 mg (milligrams) once every 2 weeks for the first 4 doses, followed by 80 mg once every 4 weeks thereafter. Ixekizumab can be used in adults and children who are at least 6 years old.

The most common side effects of ixekizumab include upper respiratory tract infection, headache, diarrhea, fatigue, nausea, and injection site reactions. Ixekizumab can also increase the risk of serious infections.

Ixekizumab is a powerful medication that can help to clear psoriasis and improve quality of life for people who suffer from this chronic condition.

How does Ixekizumab work?

Ixekizumab is a biologic medication that works by targeting a specific protein in the body called interleukin-17 (IL-17). This protein is involved in the development of psoriasis and other inflammatory conditions. Ixekizumab binds to IL-17 and prevents it from attaching to its receptors on cells. This action reduces the inflammation and itching associated with psoriasis.

Who can take Ixekizumab?

Ixekizumab is a prescription medication that is used to treat adults with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. It is not known if ixekizumab is safe and effective in children. Ixekizumab is given as an injection under the skin. The recommended dose of ixekizumab is 80 mg (4 mL) every 4 weeks for the first 12 weeks, followed by 80 mg every 12 weeks after that.

What are the side effects of Ixekizumab?

The most common side effects of Ixekizumab are:

-Redness and itching of the skin
-Headache
-Upper respiratory tract infection
-Diarrhea

Less common but more serious side effects include:

-Low blood count
-Liver problems
-Toxic epidermal necrolysis (a life-threatening skin condition)

How is Ixekizumab administered?

Ixekizumab is administered through an injection, typically given every two to four weeks. 

What are the possible outcomes of treatment with Ixekizumab?

The possible outcomes of treatment with Ixekizumab may include:

-Reduction in the severity of psoriasis symptoms
-Increased quality of life
-Improved self-esteem and body image
-Decreased risk of developing psoriatic arthritis

Ixekizumab is a medication that is used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. It works by targeting a specific protein called interleukin-17A (IL-17A), which is thought to play a role in the development and severity of psoriasis. Ixekizumab is a biologic medication, which means it is made from living cells. It is given as an injection under the skin every 4 weeks. Common side effects of ixekizumab include upper respiratory tract infection, headache, and diarrhea.

Conclusion

Ixekizumab is a monoclonal antibody used to treat moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. It works by blocking the action of certain proteins that are involved in inflammation and skin cell overproduction, which are responsible for the symptoms of psoriasis. This makes it an effective treatment for those suffering from this condition. With proper use and care, this medication can help reduce or clear up many unpleasant symptoms associated with psoriasis.


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