Why is this medication prescribed?

Guselkumab Injection is a prescription medication primarily used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults who are candidates for systemic therapy or phototherapy. Plaque psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition characterized by red, raised, and scaly patches on the skin. Guselkumab belongs to a class of drugs called interleukin inhibitors, which work by blocking the action of specific proteins in the body that contribute to inflammation and the development of psoriasis.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how Guselkumab injection is typically used:

• Dosage: The recommended dose of Guselkumab is 100 mg injected under the skin (subcutaneously) at weeks 0, 4, and then every 8 weeks thereafter.
• Administration: Guselkumab is provided as a pre-filled syringe or auto-injector device. It is administered by injecting it under the skin of the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. The injection site should be rotated to avoid injection into the same area repeatedly.
• Preparation: Before injecting Guselkumab, ensure that the medication has been stored properly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Allow the medication to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before administration.
• Injection Technique: Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or the medication’s package insert for the proper injection technique. It’s essential to sanitize the injection site with an alcohol swab before administering the injection.
• Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may monitor your response to Guselkumab treatment and may adjust the dosing schedule if necessary.
• Storage: Store Guselkumab in the refrigerator, between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). Do not freeze. If needed, Guselkumab can be kept at room temperature (up to 77°F or 25°C) for a single period of up to 30 days. Avoid exposing the medication to direct sunlight or extreme heat.

Always consult your healthcare provider for specific dosing instructions and any concerns regarding the use of Guselkumab injection. They can provide personalized guidance based on your medical history and individual needs.

Other uses for this medicine

Some potential off-label uses of Guselkumab may include:

• Psoriatic arthritis: Guselkumab is being investigated for its potential efficacy in treating psoriatic arthritis, a chronic inflammatory arthritis that occurs in some people with psoriasis.
• Crohn’s disease: Some studies have explored the use of Guselkumab for the treatment of Crohn’s disease, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease.
• Other autoimmune diseases: Given its mechanism of action in modulating the immune response, Guselkumab may be studied or used off-label in other autoimmune conditions where excessive inflammation plays a role.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for Guselkumab injection, here are some important considerations:

• Infections: Guselkumab may increase the risk of infections, including serious infections such as tuberculosis (TB), bacterial, fungal, and viral infections. Patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms of infection during treatment, and appropriate measures should be taken if an infection occurs.
• Immunizations: Live vaccines should not be given concurrently with Guselkumab due to the risk of infection. Patients may need to complete any necessary vaccinations before starting treatment with Guselkumab.
• Hypersensitivity Reactions: Patients should be monitored for signs of hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis or angioedema, during or after administration of Guselkumab.
• Malignancy: There may be an increased risk of malignancy, including lymphoma, in patients treated with immunosuppressive medications such as Guselkumab. Patients should undergo regular monitoring for signs of malignancy.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of Guselkumab during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well established. Healthcare providers should weigh the potential benefits and risks before initiating treatment in pregnant or breastfeeding individuals.
• Hepatitis B Reactivation: Patients with a history of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection should be closely monitored for reactivation of HBV during treatment with Guselkumab.
• Other Precautions: Guselkumab should be used with caution in patients with a history of inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, as exacerbations of these conditions have been reported with the use of interleukin inhibitors.

As with any medication, it’s important to discuss any questions or concerns about Guselkumab injection, including its potential uses and precautions, with your healthcare provider before starting treatment. They can provide personalized guidance based on your individual medical history and circumstances.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding special dietary instructions for Guselkumab Injection, there are no specific dietary restrictions associated with its use. However, it’s essential to maintain a balanced and healthy diet to support overall well-being, especially if you have conditions such as psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of Guselkumab Injection, take it as soon as you remember. Then, resume your regular dosing schedule. If it’s close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take extra doses to make up for a missed one. If you’re unsure about what to do, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist for advice. It’s important to adhere to the prescribed dosing schedule to get the maximum benefit from the medication.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Guselkumab injection, like any medication, can cause side effects. Not everyone experiences side effects, and some individuals may experience side effects that are not listed here. Common side effects of Guselkumab Injection may include:

• Upper respiratory infections, such as colds or flu
• Headaches
• Injection site reactions, such as pain, redness, itching, or swelling
• Diarrhea
• Gastrointestinal infections
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Muscle pain
• Serious infections, including tuberculosis (TB), bacterial, fungal, or viral infections
• Allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis or angioedema

Less common but potentially serious side effects of Guselkumab Injection may include:

• Severe infections: Guselkumab can increase the risk of serious infections. Contact your healthcare provider if you develop signs of infection, such as fever, chills, cough, or any other symptoms.
• Hypersensitivity reactions: Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
• Hepatitis B reactivation: If you have a history of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, your healthcare provider may monitor you for signs of HBV reactivation during treatment.
• Malignancies: There may be an increased risk of certain types of cancer, such as lymphoma, while on Guselkumab. Report any unusual lumps, swollen glands, unexplained weight loss, or other symptoms to your healthcare provider.

It’s essential to report any side effects you experience to your healthcare provider promptly. They can help determine the appropriate course of action and may adjust your treatment plan if needed. Additionally, if you have concerns about potential side effects or notice any changes in your health while taking Guselkumab, discuss them with your healthcare provider.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Guselkumab Injection:

• Storage:
  • Store Guselkumab Injection in the refrigerator at a temperature between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C).
  • Do not freeze Guselkumab Injection.
  • Keep the medication in its original carton to protect it from light.
  • If necessary, Guselkumab Injection can be kept at room temperature (up to 77°F or 25°C) for a single period of up to 30 days.
  • Avoid exposing Guselkumab Injection to direct sunlight or extreme heat.
  • Do not use Guselkumab Injection if it has been frozen or exposed to temperatures outside of the recommended range.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of used syringes or auto-injectors in a puncture-resistant container.
  • Follow local regulations or guidelines for the disposal of medical waste.
  • Do not dispose of Guselkumab Injection in household trash or recycling bins.
  • If you have questions about how to dispose of Guselkumab Injection properly, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of emergency or overdose of Guselkumab Injection, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center (1-800-222-1222 in the United States). It’s essential to follow the guidance of healthcare professionals in managing any emergency situation.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may schedule regular check-ups and monitoring tests to evaluate your response to Guselkumab treatment and to monitor for any potential side effects or complications.
• Follow-Up: Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider to ensure that you receive the appropriate monitoring and support during your treatment with Guselkumab.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The safety of Guselkumab during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well established, and your healthcare provider can help weigh the potential risks and benefits of treatment.
• Medication Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as Guselkumab may interact with certain medications.
• Patient Support: Your healthcare provider or the manufacturer of Guselkumab may offer support services, such as patient education materials or assistance programs, to help you manage your condition and treatment.
• Storage and Handling: Always store Guselkumab Injection securely, away from children and pets. Follow proper handling procedures to minimize the risk of accidental exposure or misuse.

Remember to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidelines for the safe and effective use of Guselkumab Injection. If you have any questions or concerns about your treatment, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider.