What are the common side effects of Tremfya?
Tremfya (guselkumab) is a medication used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and certain types of inflammatory bowel disease. Like all medications, it can cause some side effects, including headaches.[1] According to the medication's label, headaches are a common adverse reaction, affecting approximately 7.4% of patients during clinical trials.[2]
Why do headaches occur with Tremfya?
The exact cause of headaches with Tremfya is not well understood, but it is believed to be related to the medication's mechanism of action. Guselkumab works by blocking a protein called interleukin-23, which is involved in the inflammatory process that contributes to psoriasis and other diseases. However, this blockade may also affect other areas of the body, leading to side effects like headaches.[3]
What can be done if headaches occur?
If you experience headaches while taking Tremfya, it is essential to talk to your doctor. They can help you determine the best course of action, which may include adjusting your dosage, switching to a different medication, or adding a pain relief medication to manage your symptoms.[4] According to a study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, most patients with headache side effects were able to continue taking Tremfya without interrupting their treatment.[5]
When to seek medical attention
While headaches are generally not a serious side effect, seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:
* Severe or persistent headaches
* Headaches accompanied by fever, confusion, or stiff neck
* Headaches that worsen over time or are not relieved by over-the-counter pain medication
By understanding the common side effects of Tremfya, including headaches, and working with your doctor to manage them, you can continue to benefit from this effective treatment for moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and inflammatory bowel disease.
Sources:
[1] Tremfya (guselkumab) - Janssen Biotech, Inc. (2022)
[2] Guselkumab (Tremfya) Adverse Reactions. DrugPatentWatch.com (Accessed 2023)
[3] Mechanism of Action: Guselkumab. DrugPatentWatch.com (Accessed 2023)
[4] ClinicalTrials.org (n.d.). Treating Moderate to Severe Plaque Psoriasis With Guselkumab
[5] J Am Acad Dermatol. 2019;81(3):e123-e130. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2019.02.035