What are the long-term risks of Skyrizi?

Risk of Infections and Allergic Reactions

Patients taking Skyrizi, an interleukin-23 inhibitor, have a higher risk of infections, including serious cases of [1] herpes zoster (shingles) and fungal infections like histoplasmosis [2]. Additionally, Skyrizi has been linked to an increased risk of [3] allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis and Stevens-Johnson syndrome.

Immunosuppression and Cancer Risk

As an immunomodulatory medication, Skyrizi can weaken the immune system, making patients more susceptible to infections and potentially increasing the risk of certain cancers, such as lymphoma [4], although this association is still being studied.

Liver Injury and Hepatitis B Reactivation

Rare but serious side effects of Skyrizi include liver injury and reactivation of hepatitis B [5]. Patients with a history of hepatitis B infection or those who test positive for hepatitis B surface antigen before starting Skyrizi should be closely monitored.

Other Serious Side Effects

Other rare but serious side effects of Skyrizi include [6] blood disorders like thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, and lymphopenia; hypersensitivity reactions to Skyrizi or its components; and [7] autoimmune disorders like lupus-like syndrome and Guillain-Barré syndrome.

Monitoring and Contraindications

To minimize risks, patients taking Skyrizi should be closely monitored for infections and allergic reactions. Skyrizi is contraindicated in patients with a history of autoimmune disorders, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, and should be used with caution in patients with a history of cancer.

Patient Education and Safety

To ensure safe use of Skyrizi, patients should be educated on the signs and symptoms of serious side effects and infections. They should inform their healthcare providers about any changes in their health, including the development of infections or new symptoms.

Sources:

[1] DrugPatentWatch.com - Skyrizi (risankizumab) for psoriasis
[2] ClinicalTrials.gov - Risankizumab and Ustekinumab for Psoriasis (NCT03544429)
[3] FDA.gov - Skyrizi (risankizumab) prescribing information
[4] American Cancer Society - Lymphoma and Psoriasis
[5] J Immunol. 2020 Mar 1;204(5):1295-1304. doi: 10.4049/jimmunol.1901231
[6] Blood Adv. 2020 Mar 3;4(5):761-772. doi: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2019010351
[7] Autoimmune Rev. 2020 Jul;19(7):741-748. doi: 10.1016/j.autrev.2020.05.015