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Ixekizumab Treatment: Benefits, Dosing, and Side Effects Guide
Summary of Key Points
Ixekizumab is a prescription medication used to treat several inflammatory conditions, including psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. It works by targeting specific proteins in the immune system to reduce inflammation. Administered via injection, Ixekizumab is typically prescribed for patients who have not responded to other treatments. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or adjusting your dose. Our telemedicine providers are available to assist you.
Names of Medication
US Brand Name: Taltz
Generic Name: Ixekizumab
The generic name refers to the active ingredient, while the brand name is assigned by the manufacturer. In this case, Ixekizumab is the generic name.
Pharmacologic Category
Category: Interleukin-17A (IL-17A) Inhibitor
Other medications in this category include secukinumab (Cosentyx) and brodalumab (Siliq).
Ixekizumab Dosing Schedule
Ixekizumab is used to treat several conditions. Below are the recommended doses for each. Always consult your healthcare provider before adjusting your dose. If you need assistance, our telemedicine providers are available to help.
Ixekizumab for Plaque Psoriasis
Initial Dose: 160 mg (two 80 mg injections) at Week 0
Maintenance Dose: 80 mg every 2 weeks for 12 weeks, then 80 mg every 4 weeks
Ixekizumab for Psoriatic Arthritis
Initial Dose: 160 mg at Week 0
Maintenance Dose: 80 mg every 4 weeks
Ixekizumab for Ankylosing Spondylitis
Initial Dose: 160 mg at Week 0
Maintenance Dose: 80 mg every 4 weeks
Crohn’s Disease
Ixekizumab is not currently FDA-approved for Crohn’s disease. Consult your healthcare provider for alternative treatments.
Ulcerative Colitis
Ixekizumab is not currently FDA-approved for ulcerative colitis. Consult your healthcare provider for alternative treatments.
Atopic Dermatitis
Ixekizumab is not currently FDA-approved for atopic dermatitis. Consult your healthcare provider for alternative treatments.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Ixekizumab is not currently FDA-approved for rheumatoid arthritis. Consult your healthcare provider for alternative treatments.
Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Ixekizumab is not currently FDA-approved for hidradenitis suppurativa. Consult your healthcare provider for alternative treatments.
Asthma
Ixekizumab is not currently FDA-approved for asthma. Consult your healthcare provider for alternative treatments.
Allergic Rhinitis
Ixekizumab is not currently FDA-approved for allergic rhinitis. Consult your healthcare provider for alternative treatments.
Dosage Forms and Strengths
Injection: 80 mg/mL solution in a single-dose prefilled syringe
Injection: 80 mg/mL solution in a single-dose autoinjector
Administration Instructions for Ixekizumab Injection
Ixekizumab is administered as a subcutaneous injection (under the skin), typically in the thigh, abdomen, or upper arm. You or a caregiver may be trained to administer the injection at home. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully. If you miss a dose, contact your healthcare provider for guidance. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Ixekizumab Side Effects and Adverse Reactions
Like any medication, Ixekizumab may cause side effects. Below are some of the most common and serious side effects. If you experience any severe reactions, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Our telemedicine providers are available for consultation if you have concerns.
Common Side Effects of Ixekizumab
Injection site reactions: Redness, swelling, or pain at the injection site. These are usually mild and resolve on their own.
Upper respiratory infections: Symptoms may include a runny nose, sore throat, or cough.
Nausea: Feeling sick to your stomach, which may improve over time.
Serious Side Effects of Ixekizumab
Serious allergic reactions: Symptoms may include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, and hives. Seek immediate medical attention if these occur.
Increased risk of infections: Ixekizumab can lower your immune system’s ability to fight infections. Contact your doctor if you develop a fever, chills, or other signs of infection.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) flare-ups: If you have a history of IBD, Ixekizumab may worsen your symptoms. Notify your healthcare provider if you experience severe abdominal pain or diarrhea.
Contraindications for Ixekizumab Treatment
A contraindication is a specific condition where a medication should not be used because it could be harmful. If you have any of the following conditions, you should not take Ixekizumab or should discuss them with your healthcare provider before starting the medication.
Active infection: Ixekizumab can weaken your immune system, making it harder to fight infections. If you have an active infection, taking Ixekizumab could worsen it.
History of tuberculosis (TB): If you have had TB or been exposed to someone with TB, Ixekizumab may reactivate the infection. Your doctor may recommend TB testing before starting treatment.
Allergic reactions to Ixekizumab: If you have had a severe allergic reaction (such as anaphylaxis) to Ixekizumab or any of its ingredients, you should not take this medication.
Immunosuppression: If you have a condition that weakens your immune system (such as HIV) or are taking other immunosuppressive medications, Ixekizumab could increase your risk of infections.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Ixekizumab has been associated with worsening symptoms in people with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. If you have a history of IBD, discuss this with your healthcare provider.
Drug to Drug Interactions
Ixekizumab may interact with other medications, potentially altering its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. It’s important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter products, and supplements. Some known interactions include:
TNF inhibitors: Medications such as adalimumab (Humira), etanercept (Enbrel), and infliximab (Remicade) should not be used in combination with Ixekizumab, as this can significantly increase the risk of infections.
Live vaccines: Vaccines containing live viruses, such as the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, should not be administered while taking Ixekizumab. Live vaccines can lead to infections in individuals with weakened immune systems.
Ixekizumab in Pregnancy
Is it safe to take Ixekizumab during pregnancy?
There is limited information on the safety of Ixekizumab during pregnancy. While animal studies have not shown harm to the fetus, there is insufficient data from human studies to fully assess the risks. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it’s essential to discuss the potential benefits and risks of continuing Ixekizumab with your healthcare provider. They can help you make an informed decision based on your individual circumstances.
Ixekizumab while Breastfeeding
Is it safe to take Ixekizumab while breastfeeding?
There is limited information on whether Ixekizumab passes into breast milk. Since the potential effects on a breastfeeding infant are unknown, it’s important to have a conversation with your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits. Together, you can decide whether to continue breastfeeding while on Ixekizumab or explore alternative treatment options.
Estimated Cost of Ixekizumab
The cost of a 30-day supply of Ixekizumab without insurance can vary. With a GoodRx coupon, the price typically ranges from $5,500 to $6,000 for a 30-day supply. Prices may differ depending on your location and pharmacy. For the most accurate pricing, check with your pharmacy or discuss potential financial assistance programs with your healthcare provider.
Possible Alternatives to Ixekizumab
If Ixekizumab is not the right option for you, other treatments and lifestyle changes may help manage your condition. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. You can also schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers to discuss your options.
Psoriasis: Alternatives include other biologics like secukinumab (Cosentyx) or ustekinumab (Stelara), topical treatments, light therapy, or systemic medications such as methotrexate. Lifestyle changes, such as reducing stress, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight, can also help manage symptoms.
Psoriatic arthritis: Other biologics like adalimumab (Humira) or etanercept (Enbrel), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) like methotrexate, and physical therapy can be effective alternatives.
Ankylosing spondylitis: TNF inhibitors like infliximab (Remicade) or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen can help manage symptoms. Regular exercise and physical therapy are also important for maintaining flexibility and reducing pain.
Crohn’s disease: Alternatives include biologics like vedolizumab (Entyvio) or ustekinumab (Stelara), corticosteroids, or aminosalicylates. Dietary changes, such as avoiding trigger foods, may also help manage symptoms.
Ulcerative colitis: Other treatment options include biologics like infliximab (Remicade), corticosteroids, and aminosalicylates. Dietary modifications and stress management can also be beneficial.
Atopic dermatitis: Alternatives include topical corticosteroids, calcineurin inhibitors like tacrolimus (Protopic), or other biologics like dupilumab (Dupixent). Moisturizing regularly and avoiding triggers like harsh soaps can also help.
Rheumatoid arthritis: DMARDs like methotrexate, biologics like adalimumab (Humira), and NSAIDs can be effective alternatives. Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight are also important for managing symptoms.
Hidradenitis suppurativa: Antibiotics, hormonal treatments, or biologics like adalimumab (Humira) may be considered. Weight loss, smoking cessation, and proper hygiene can also help manage symptoms.
Asthma: Alternatives include inhaled corticosteroids, long-acting beta agonists (LABAs), or biologics like omalizumab (Xolair). Avoiding triggers such as allergens and smoking can also help manage asthma symptoms.
Allergic rhinitis: Antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, or allergy shots (immunotherapy) are common alternatives. Reducing exposure to allergens, such as dust or pollen, can also help alleviate symptoms.
Recent Updates on Ixekizumab Research
Recent studies continue to support the effectiveness of Ixekizumab in treating moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, with some research showing sustained improvement in skin clearance over several years of use. Additionally, ongoing clinical trials are exploring the use of Ixekizumab in other inflammatory conditions, such as hidradenitis suppurativa and ulcerative colitis. These studies are still in early phases, but they may expand the potential uses of Ixekizumab in the future.
As research progresses, staying informed about new findings is important. If you have questions about how this research might affect your treatment, consider scheduling a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers to discuss the latest updates.
