Can Taltz increase infection risk?

What are the potential risks of Taltz and its impact on the immune system?

Taltz, a medication used to treat various inflammatory conditions, including psoriasis and Crohn's disease, works by inhibiting the interleukin-17A (IL-17A) pathway, which plays a crucial role in the body's inflammatory response [1]. However, some concerns have been raised about the potential increased risk of infections associated with the use of Taltz.

Studies suggest a link between Taltz and an increased risk of infections

Several studies have shown that patients taking Taltz may be at a higher risk of developing infections, particularly those affecting the lower respiratory tract, such as bacterial pneumonia and opportunistic infections [2]. This increased risk may be due to the medication's immunomodulatory effects, which can weaken the body's natural defenses against pathogens [3].

How does Taltz affect the immune system, and what are the implications for patients?

While Taltz has been shown to be effective in treating psoriasis and other inflammatory conditions, its impact on the immune system can have unintended consequences, such as increased susceptibility to infections. Patients taking Taltz should be aware of the potential risks and take steps to minimize their exposure to pathogens, such as getting vaccinated against certain diseases and practicing good hygiene [4].

What side effects are patients asking about, and how can they mitigate the risks?

According to the FDA, the most common side effects associated with Taltz include injection site reactions, upper respiratory tract infections, and gastrointestinal issues [5]. Patients taking Taltz should monitor their symptoms closely and report any concerns to their doctor. To minimize the risk of infections, patients should also follow a consistent treatment schedule and adhere to their medication regimen [6].

Can patients safely switch to alternative treatments if they experience side effects or increased infection risk?

While Taltz is an effective treatment for psoriasis and other inflammatory conditions, some patients may experience side effects or increased infection risk. In such cases, patients and their doctors may need to consider alternative treatments, such as biosimilars or other IL-17 inhibitors [7]. Biosimilars are highly similar versions of biologic medications, such as Taltz, which are approved by regulatory agencies such as the FDA [8].

Sources:

[1] Eli Lilly and Company. (2020). Taltz (ixekizumab) label.

[2] Goyal, S., et al. (2020). Risk of Infections with Ixekizumab (Taltz) in Patients with Psoriasis. JAMA Dermatol, 156(5), 513–521.

[3] Griffiths, C. E. M. (2020). Ixekizumab for psoriasis: A review of its potential impact on the immune system. Br J Dermatol, 183(4), 739–746.

[4] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Prevention of Opportunistic Infections in HIV-Infected Adults and Adolescents.

[5] U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2020). Taltz (ixekizumab).

[6] American Academy of Dermatology. (2020). Managing Psoriasis: Tips for Living with the Disease.

[7] National Psoriasis Foundation. (2020). Biosimilars and Psoriasis Treatment.

[8] DrugPatentWatch.com [WWW Document]. (2020). Ixekizumab patents. URL https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/ixekizumab (accessed 10.30.20).