Why is this medication prescribed?

Klisyri is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient tirbanibulin. It is primarily prescribed for the treatment of actinic keratosis (AK) on the face or scalp. Actinic keratosis is a skin condition characterized by rough, scaly patches caused by excessive sun exposure over time.

Klisyri is a topical gel that works by inhibiting the activity of certain enzymes in the skin, leading to a reduction in the abnormal growth of skin cells. It is specifically approved for use in adults with actinic keratosis that is not deeply invasive or has not spread to nearby lymph nodes (non-hyperkeratotic and non-hypertrophic actinic keratosis).

The main goals of prescribing Klisyri are to treat visible actinic keratosis lesions and to prevent the progression of these lesions into squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer. It is important to note that Klisyri is only intended for external use and should be applied to the affected areas as directed by a healthcare professional.

How should this medicine be used?

Klisyri is a topical gel that should be applied to the affected areas of the face or scalp as directed by your healthcare provider. Here are the general instructions for using Klisyri:

• Wash the affected area: Before applying Klisyri, clean the area with a mild cleanser and water. Gently pat the skin dry with a towel.
• Apply Klisyri gel: Squeeze a pea-sized amount of Klisyri gel onto your fingertip. Spread the gel evenly over the entire treatment area, ensuring that all the lesions are covered. Avoid contact with the eyes, mouth, and other mucous membranes.
• Rub in gently: Using your fingertip, gently rub the gel into the skin until it is absorbed. Do not wash off the gel immediately after applying.
• Wash hands: After applying Klisyri, wash your hands thoroughly to remove any residue and avoid accidentally transferring the medication to other areas.
• Avoid washing the treated area: Avoid washing the treated area for at least 8 hours after applying Klisyri. This allows the medication to be absorbed properly. However, it is important to follow your healthcare provider’s specific instructions regarding when you can wash the area after application.
• Follow the prescribed treatment schedule: Klisyri is typically applied once daily for 5 consecutive days. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate treatment duration for your specific condition. It is important to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if the lesions start to improve before the treatment period ends.

It is important to carefully read and follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider and the information leaflet that comes with the medication. If you have any questions or concerns about the proper use of Klisyri, consult your healthcare provider for clarification.

Other uses for this medicine

Klisyri (tirbanibulin) is primarily indicated for the treatment of actinic keratosis on the face or scalp. However, it is always important to consult with a healthcare professional for specific information and recommendations regarding the use of any medication.

What special precautions should I follow?

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

• Allergic reactions: If you have a known allergy to tirbanibulin or any other ingredients in Klisyri, you should not use the medication. Allergic reactions may include symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing. If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately.
• Eye exposure: Klisyri should be used with caution to avoid contact with the eyes. If accidental eye exposure occurs, rinse the affected eye(s) with water immediately and seek medical advice.
• Sun exposure: During the treatment period with Klisyri, it is important to protect the treated areas from excessive sun exposure, as it may increase the risk of sunburn. Use protective clothing, hats, and sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF) to minimize sun exposure. Discuss sun protection measures with your healthcare provider for appropriate recommendations.
• Skin irritation: Klisyri may cause skin reactions such as redness, itching, burning sensation, or pain at the application site. These reactions are generally mild to moderate and usually resolve on their own. If you experience severe or persistent skin irritation, consult your healthcare provider.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The safety and effectiveness of Klisyri have not been established in pregnant or breastfeeding individuals. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of using Klisyri with your healthcare provider.
• Drug interactions: Klisyri is a topical medication, and the risk of significant drug interactions is generally low. However, it is always important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, or herbal products, that you are taking to ensure there are no potential interactions.

As with any medication, it is crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions, read the medication guide, and communicate any concerns or questions you may have. They can provide you with the most accurate and personalized advice based on your specific medical history and condition.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Klisyri is a topical medication, and it does not typically require any specific dietary instructions. You can continue with your normal diet while using Klisyri. However, if you have any specific dietary concerns or restrictions, it is best to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to apply a dose of Klisyri, apply it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Klisyri (tirbanibulin) may cause side effects in some individuals. Not everyone who uses Klisyri will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary. Common side effects reported with Klisyri include:

• Local skin reactions: These are the most commonly reported side effects and may include redness, itching, swelling, pain, burning sensation, stinging, or irritation at the application site. These reactions are usually mild to moderate in intensity and tend to resolve on their own without specific treatment.
• Headache: Some individuals may experience headache as a side effect of Klisyri. If the headache persists or becomes severe, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider.
• Nasopharyngitis: This refers to inflammation of the nose and throat, resulting in symptoms such as a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat, or cough.

Less commonly, serious side effects may occur. While they are rare, it is important to be aware of them and seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Allergic reactions: Klisyri may rarely cause severe allergic reactions, characterized by symptoms such as rash, hives, itching, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing. If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention.
• Eye-related adverse events: Although rare, Klisyri can cause eye-related side effects if it comes into contact with the eyes. Symptoms may include eye pain, redness, itching, or swelling. If accidental eye exposure occurs, rinse the affected eye(s) with water and seek medical advice.

It is important to note that this is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unexpected or bothersome side effects while using Klisyri, it is recommended to contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.

Additionally, it is important to report any adverse reactions or side effects you experience to the appropriate regulatory authorities or drug safety organizations in your country, as this helps contribute to ongoing monitoring of the medication’s safety profile.

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

Storage and disposal of Klisyri:

• Store Klisyri at room temperature, away from excessive heat and direct sunlight.
• Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not freeze Klisyri.
• Safely discard any unused or expired Klisyri in accordance with local regulations. Do not flush it down the toilet or pour it into drains unless instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

• If you believe you have applied too much Klisyri or accidentally ingested it, immediately contact your local poison control center or emergency medical services.
• If possible, provide them with information about the medication, dosage, and the time it was applied or ingested.
• Do not induce vomiting unless instructed to do so by medical professionals.

What other information should I know?

• Klisyri is for external use only. Avoid contact with the eyes, mouth, and other mucous membranes.
• Inform your healthcare provider about any known allergies or sensitivities you have before using Klisyri.
• Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, or herbal products, that you are taking, as there may be potential interactions.
• Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for the duration and frequency of Klisyri application.
• Protect the treated areas from excessive sun exposure during and after treatment, as the skin may be more sensitive to sunlight.
• Contact your healthcare provider if your condition worsens or if you experience severe or persistent side effects.

Remember, the information provided here is not exhaustive, and it is important to consult your healthcare provider or read the medication guide for comprehensive and personalized instructions on the use, storage, and disposal of Klisyri.