Products
Risankizumab was approved in the United States and in many countries in 2019 as a solution for injection (Skyrizi).
Structure and properties
Risankizumab is a humanized IgG1 monoclonal antibody produced by biotechnological methods.
Effects
Risankizumab (ATC L04AC) has selective immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory properties. The antibody binds to the p19 subunit of human interleukin-23 (IL-23), inhibiting interaction with its receptor. IL-23 is a natural cytokine involved in inflammatory and immune responses. It plays an essential role in the differentiation, maintenance and activity of various immune cells (such as T lymphocytes, T helper cells). The interaction inhibits the release of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines. The terminal half-life is in the range of 28 days.
Indications
As a second-line agent for the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The drug is injected subcutaneously: Week 0, Week 4, then every 12 weeks.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Clinically relevant active infections, e.g., active tuberculosis.
Full precautions can be found in the drug label.
Interactions
Live vaccines should not be administered during treatment. Required vaccinations should be given prior to initiation of therapy.
Adverse effects
The most common potential adverse effects include upper respiratory tract infections, headache, fatigue, injection site reactions, and fungal infections. Risankizumab increases the risk for infectious diseases.
