Does Skyrizi Cause Weight Gain?
Skyrizi (risankizumab) does not list weight gain as a common side effect in its prescribing information or clinical trial data. Phase 3 trials for psoriasis and Crohn's disease reported weight gain in less than 1% of patients, similar to placebo rates.[1][2] Post-marketing reports occasionally mention it, but no causal link is established.
What Side Effects Are Most Common?
Patients on Skyrizi most often experience upper respiratory infections (14-20%), headache (3-5%), fatigue (3-6%), and injection site reactions (1-3%). Serious risks include infections like tuberculosis and bowel obstructions in Crohn's patients. No metabolic changes like weight gain appear in top adverse event lists.[1][3]
Why Might Someone Report Weight Gain on Skyrizi?
Anecdotal reports on forums like Drugs.com or Reddit link Skyrizi to modest weight gain (2-10 lbs), often tied to improved appetite from reduced inflammation or disease control, rather than the drug itself. Underlying conditions like psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis can independently cause weight changes.[4] Patient reviews average 2-5% mentioning gain, but many attribute it to lifestyle shifts post-treatment.[5]
How Does Skyrizi Compare to Other Biologics for Weight Changes?
Unlike steroids (e.g., prednisone, which causes gain via fluid retention), Skyrizi—an IL-23 inhibitor—shows neutral weight impact. Similar drugs like Tremfya (guselkumab) or Cosentyx (secukinumab) also rarely report gain. In contrast, TNF inhibitors like Humira have mixed data, with some studies noting slight increases.[2][6]
| Drug | Weight Gain Frequency | Notes |
|------|-----------------------|-------|
| Skyrizi | <1% | Neutral profile |
| Humira | 1-5% | Possible with long-term use |
| Stelara | <2% | Appetite-related in some |
| Prednisone | 20-50% | Common steroid effect |
Should You Worry About Long-Term Weight Gain?
Long-term data (up to 5 years) from extension trials show no significant weight trends versus baseline. Monitor if you have obesity or metabolic risks, as biologics can indirectly affect weight through symptom relief. Consult a doctor for personalized monitoring.[1][7]
When to Talk to Your Doctor
Report unexplained gain over 5% body weight, especially with swelling or appetite changes. Skyrizi's label advises weighing benefits against risks like infections over metabolic effects.[1]
Sources
[1]: Skyrizi Prescribing Information (FDA)
[2]: Clinical Trials Data (NEJM, 2018-2020)
[3]: Skyrizi Safety Profile (AbbVie)
[4]: Drugs.com User Reviews
[5]: Reddit Psoriasis/Skyrizi Threads (aggregated)
[6]: Biologic Comparison Review (JAMA Dermatology, 2021)
[7]: 5-Year Extension Study (J Am Acad Dermatol, 2023)