Why is this medication prescribed?

Ilumya (tildrakizumab) is a prescription medication used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults. Plaque psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches on the skin that can be itchy and painful.

Ilumya belongs to a class of drugs called interleukin inhibitors. It works by targeting a specific protein in the body called interleukin-23 (IL-23), which plays a role in the immune system and is believed to contribute to the development of psoriasis. By blocking the action of IL-23, Ilumya helps reduce the inflammation and excessive cell production associated with psoriasis.

How should this medicine be used?

Ilumya (tildrakizumab) is typically administered as an injection and should be used according to the instructions provided by your healthcare provider. Here is a general overview of how Ilumya is commonly used:

• Administration: Ilumya is administered by subcutaneous injection, which means it is injected under the skin. The injections are usually given by a healthcare professional, but in some cases, patients may be trained to self-inject at home.
• Dosage: The recommended dosage of Ilumya is 100 mg. The initial dose is typically given as two separate injections of 100 mg each. These initial doses are usually administered four weeks apart. After the initial dose, subsequent doses are given every 12 weeks.
• Injection site: Ilumya injections are typically given in the front of the thighs, abdomen (except for the navel area), or upper arms. Your healthcare provider will provide specific instructions on the injection site and demonstrate the proper technique.
• Preparation: Ilumya injections come as pre-filled syringes or pens. Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or the product packaging for proper preparation and administration.
• Rotating injection sites: It is important to rotate the injection sites with each dose to reduce the risk of skin reactions or irritation. Your healthcare provider can provide guidance on how to properly rotate the injection sites.
• Follow-up appointments: Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor your progress and adjust the treatment plan if necessary.

It is important to always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding the use of Ilumya. If you have any questions or concerns about the medication or its administration, be sure to consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Other uses for this medicine

Ilumya (tildrakizumab) is primarily approved for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults and is not commonly used for other conditions. However, it’s important to note that the field of medicine is constantly evolving, and new uses for medications may emerge over time. Therefore, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for the most up-to-date information regarding the uses of Ilumya.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions, here are some important points to consider:

• Allergic reactions: Before starting Ilumya, inform your healthcare provider if you have any known allergies, especially to any of the ingredients in the medication. Allergic reactions to Ilumya are rare, but they can occur.
• Infections: Ilumya may increase the risk of infections, including serious and potentially life-threatening ones. Before starting treatment, inform your healthcare provider if you have any existing infections or if you have a history of recurring infections. It’s important to promptly report any signs of infection during treatment, such as fever, cough, or flu-like symptoms.
• Tuberculosis (TB): Prior to initiating Ilumya, your healthcare provider may perform a screening test for tuberculosis. If you have an active or latent TB infection, appropriate treatment should be started before beginning Ilumya.
• Immunizations: It is recommended to be up to date with all immunizations before starting Ilumya. Live vaccines should not be administered concurrently with Ilumya, as it may interfere with the effectiveness of the vaccine.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The safety of Ilumya during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well established. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of Ilumya with your healthcare provider.
• Other medical conditions: Inform your healthcare provider about any other medical conditions you have, including a history of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or depression. Ilumya may exacerbate these conditions or have an impact on their management.
• Drug interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Certain medications, such as immunosuppressants, may interact with Ilumya and require adjustments in dosing or monitoring.

It is crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance throughout your treatment with Ilumya. They will be able to provide personalized advice and monitor your progress to ensure the medication is used safely and effectively.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary instructions associated with the use of Ilumya (tildrakizumab). However, it is always important to maintain a healthy and balanced diet to support overall well-being and manage any underlying health conditions.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Ilumya, it is generally recommended to contact your healthcare provider for guidance. They will be able to provide specific instructions based on your individual circumstances. In some cases, they may advise you to take the missed dose as soon as possible and then resume the regular dosing schedule. It is important not to double the dose to make up for a missed one unless specifically instructed by your healthcare provider.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Ilumya (tildrakizumab) may cause side effects in some individuals. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary from person to person. Common side effects of Ilumya include:

• Upper respiratory infections: This may include symptoms such as a sore throat, stuffy or runny nose, or cough.
• Injection site reactions: These can include redness, swelling, itching, or pain at the injection site.
• Diarrhea: Some individuals may experience an increase in bowel movements or loose stools.
• Headache: This may present as mild to moderate head pain.
• Nausea: Some individuals may experience a feeling of discomfort or unease in the stomach, potentially leading to the urge to vomit.
• Fungal infections: In rare cases, Ilumya may increase the risk of fungal infections, such as oral or vaginal yeast infections.

It’s important to promptly report any side effects to your healthcare provider. They can assess the severity of the side effects and provide guidance on how to manage them. In some cases, adjusting the dosage or discontinuing the medication may be necessary.

Additionally, while uncommon, there is a potential risk of more serious side effects associated with the use of Ilumya. These can include severe allergic reactions, serious infections, or worsening of inflammatory bowel disease. If you experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest tightness, severe rash, fever, or persistent gastrointestinal symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

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

• Storage: Ilumya should be stored in a refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C (36°F and 46°F). Do not freeze the medication. Keep it in the original packaging to protect it from light. Do not use Ilumya if it has been frozen.
• Disposal: Proper disposal of unused or expired Ilumya should be done in accordance with local regulations and guidelines. It is recommended to consult with your healthcare provider, pharmacist, or local waste management authorities to determine the appropriate method of disposal.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of emergency or overdose, it is important to seek immediate medical attention or contact your local poison control center. The signs of an overdose may include severe allergic reactions, severe infections, or other unexpected or severe symptoms. It is important to provide healthcare professionals with all the necessary information about the medication and the situation.

What other information should I know?

• Regular monitoring: Your healthcare provider may periodically monitor your progress and conduct tests during your treatment with Ilumya to evaluate its effectiveness and assess any potential side effects.
• Compliance: It is important to follow the prescribed dosing schedule and not to miss any doses of Ilumya. If you have any concerns about the treatment or difficulties with compliance, discuss them with your healthcare provider.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to avoid any potential interactions with Ilumya. This includes over-the-counter medications.
• Updated information: Stay informed about any updates or changes to the prescribing information, warnings, or precautions for Ilumya. Consult with your healthcare provider for the most up-to-date information.

Remember to always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance specific to your situation. They will be able to provide you with the most accurate and relevant information regarding the use, storage, and disposal of Ilumya.