Common Side Effects of Skyrizi
Skyrizi (risankizumab-rzaa), used for plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis, most often causes respiratory infections like upper respiratory tract infections (13-15% of patients), headache (5-10%), fatigue (6%), injection site reactions such as redness or itching (3-5%), and fungal infections like oral thrush (1-3%). These are typically mild and resolve without stopping treatment.[1][2]
Serious Side Effects and Risks
Serious risks include severe infections (e.g., tuberculosis reactivation, sepsis), with rates around 1-2% in trials; monitor for fever or cough. It increases malignancy risk slightly (0.4% vs. 0.6% placebo), and rare cases of hypersensitivity reactions like anaphylaxis occur. Liver enzyme elevations happen in 2-3% of patients, especially with Crohn's use, and it may worsen inflammatory bowel disease symptoms. Avoid live vaccines during treatment.[1][3]
Side Effects by Condition
- Psoriasis/Psoriatic Arthritis: Upper respiratory infections top the list (14%), followed by headache and fatigue; serious infections in <1%.
- Crohn's Disease: Infections (10%), joint pain (6%), and nausea (5%); higher liver risks (3.5%).
- Ulcerative Colitis: Similar to Crohn's, with anemia (4%) and fever (3%) more noted.[2][4]
What Happens If You Miss a Dose or Overdose
Missing a dose may reduce effectiveness; resume as scheduled without doubling up. Overdose symptoms mirror common side effects but can intensify infections—seek medical help. No specific antidote exists.[1]
Who Should Avoid Skyrizi or Use Caution
Active infections, recent live vaccines, or untreated tuberculosis preclude use. Caution in elderly patients (higher infection risk), immunocompromised individuals, or those with liver disease. Not studied in pregnancy (category unknown); use effective contraception.[3][5]
How Patients Report Side Effects
Patients often mention injection pain or fatigue lasting days on forums, but clinical data shows most tolerate it well (discontinuation <2%). Report to FDA via MedWatch if severe.[1]
[1]: Skyrizi Prescribing Information (FDA)
[2]: Skyrizi Clinical Trial Data (AbbVie)
[3]: Drugs.com Skyrizi Side Effects
[4]: Crohn's & Colitis Foundation on Skyrizi
[5]: WebMD Skyrizi Warnings