Products
Guselkumab was approved in the United States and the EU in 2017 and in many countries in 2018 as a solution for injection for subcutaneous use (Tremfya).
Structure and properties
Guselkumab is an IgG1λ monoclonal antibody produced by biotechnological methods.
Effects
Guselkumab (ATC L04AC16) has anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. The effects are due to binding to the p19 subunit of interleukin 23 (IL-23), which prevents interaction with the IL-23 receptor. IL-23 is a cytokine involved in inflammatory and immune responses. The mean half-life is in the range of 15 to 18 days.
Indications
For the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The drug is injected subcutaneously. Started at weeks 0 and 4, followed by a maintenance dose every 8 weeks.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Clinically relevant active infections
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Live vaccines should not be administered during treatment.
Adverse effects
Guselkumab has immunosuppressive properties and therefore may increase the risk for infectious diseases. The most common potential adverse effects include upper respiratory tract infections.
