Why is this medication prescribed?

Adbry (generic name: tralokinumab-ldrm) is a medication used to treat moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (eczema) in adults and adolescents. It works by targeting and inhibiting interleukin-13 (IL-13), a cytokine involved in inflammation and immune response that contributes to the symptoms of atopic dermatitis. By blocking IL-13, Adbry helps reduce inflammation, itching, and skin lesions associated with the condition, improving overall skin health and quality of life.

How should this medicine be used?

Adbry (abrocitinib) is a medication primarily used to treat moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (eczema) in adults and children. It’s a Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor that works by interfering with the activity of specific enzymes involved in the inflammatory process, thus helping to reduce symptoms like itching and rash.

Here’s a detailed guide on how to use Adbry:

• Initial Dosage:
  • Adults: Typically, the recommended starting dose is 200 mg once daily.
  • Children (12 years and older): The starting dose is usually 100 mg once daily.
• Dose Adjustment: Depending on the response and tolerability, the dose may be adjusted. For instance, after 4 weeks, the dose may be increased to 400 mg once daily if needed. In cases of inadequate response or tolerability issues, dose adjustments are made based on the individual’s condition.
• Administration: Adbry is taken orally, with or without food. It’s usually in the form of a tablet that should be swallowed whole. It’s important to take the medication at the same time each day to maintain even levels of the drug in your system.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose.
• Regular Check-ups: Regular visits to your healthcare provider are important for monitoring your response to the medication and any potential side effects.
• Blood Tests: Periodic blood tests may be required to check for potential issues like changes in blood cell counts or liver function.
• Common Side Effects: Include headache, nausea, and upper respiratory tract infections.
• Serious Side Effects: Can include increased risk of infections, liver problems, and blood clots. Report any unusual symptoms or side effects to your healthcare provider promptly.
• Pre-existing Conditions: Inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of infections, liver problems, or any other significant health issues.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, as Adbry’s effects during pregnancy and lactation are not fully known.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and the guidelines provided with your medication.

Other uses for this medicine

• Psoriasis: Adbry might be used in some cases of psoriasis, though it is not currently approved for this indication.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: Some JAK inhibitors are used for rheumatoid arthritis, so Adbry could be considered in some situations.
• Other Autoimmune Diseases: Research might explore its efficacy in other autoimmune or inflammatory conditions.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Adbry:

• Infection Risk: Adbry can increase your risk of infections. If you have an active infection or a history of recurrent infections, inform your healthcare provider. They may need to monitor you closely or adjust your treatment.
• Liver Health: Regular liver function tests are important because Adbry can affect liver enzymes. If you experience symptoms of liver problems (such as jaundice, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain), contact your healthcare provider immediately.
• Blood Cell Counts: Adbry may affect blood cell counts. Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor for any changes in red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
• Vaccinations: Live vaccines should be avoided while taking Adbry. Inform your healthcare provider about any vaccinations you plan to get during your treatment.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The effects of Adbry on pregnancy and breastfeeding are not well studied. Discuss with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider of all other medications and supplements you are taking, as Adbry can interact with other drugs.
• Underlying Conditions: If you have a history of gastrointestinal issues, cardiovascular disease, or other serious health conditions, your healthcare provider will need to take these into account when prescribing Adbry.
• Abnormal Laboratory Tests: Regular monitoring of laboratory tests is essential to detect any abnormal findings that might require adjustment of your treatment.

Always adhere to the guidance provided by your healthcare provider and report any unusual symptoms or side effects immediately.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Special Dietary Instructions for Adbry:

• Food Interactions: Adbry can be taken with or without food, so there are no specific dietary restrictions required.
• Alcohol: It’s advisable to limit alcohol intake while taking Adbry, as excessive alcohol can increase the risk of liver problems.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Take it as soon as you remember: If it’s close to the time of your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Do not double up: Do not double up on doses to make up for the missed one.

• Routine Adherence: To avoid missing doses, try setting a daily reminder or incorporating it into your routine at the same time each day.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Adbry (abrocitinib) can cause a range of side effects. Some are common and mild, while others may be more serious. Here’s a breakdown:

Common Side Effects:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Upper respiratory tract infections (e.g., sinusitis, pharyngitis)
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue

Serious Side Effects:

• Infections: Increased risk of serious infections, including bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. Symptoms might include fever, chills, or persistent cough.
• Liver Issues: Potential for liver enzyme abnormalities. Watch for symptoms like yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or severe abdominal pain.
• Blood Problems: Can affect blood cell counts, leading to anemia, low white blood cells (leukopenia), or low platelets (thrombocytopenia). Symptoms may include unusual bruising, bleeding, or persistent fatigue.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Severe abdominal pain or gastrointestinal bleeding. Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms like severe stomach pain, blood in your stool, or black, tarry stools.
• Cardiovascular Problems: Rarely, JAK inhibitors can affect heart health. Report any symptoms of chest pain, shortness of breath, or swelling in your legs.

Less Common Side Effects:

• Elevated cholesterol levels: May require monitoring.
• Headaches: Persistent or severe headaches should be reported.
• Monitoring and Reporting: Regular check-ups and blood tests are important to monitor for these potential side effects. Report any unusual or severe symptoms to your healthcare provider immediately.

Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to discuss any concerns you may have about side effects.

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

Storage and Disposal of Adbry:

Storage:

• Temperature: Store Adbry at room temperature, typically between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
• Protection: Keep the medication in its original container, tightly closed, and away from moisture and heat.
• Accessibility: Keep Adbry out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.

Disposal:

• Unused Medication: Do not flush Adbry down the toilet or pour it into a drain unless instructed to do so by specific disposal instructions.
• Drug Take-Back Programs: The best way to dispose of unused medication is through a drug take-back program or a designated drug disposal site. Check with local pharmacies or community health organizations for options.
• Household Disposal: If no take-back program is available, you can mix the medication with an undesirable substance (like used coffee grounds or cat litter) in a sealed container, and then discard it in your household trash. Make sure to remove any personal information from the medication container before disposal.

In case of emergency/overdose

• In case of overdose or suspected poisoning, contact your local poison control center or emergency services immediately. The phone number for poison control in the U.S. is 1-800-222-1222.
• Overdose symptoms may include severe nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, or any other unusual or severe symptoms.
• Seek immediate medical attention if an overdose is suspected.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Regular check-ups and blood tests are essential to monitor for side effects and adjust the dosage as needed.
• Medication Interactions: Be aware of potential interactions with other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Always inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• Emergency Contacts: Keep the contact information for your healthcare provider and local emergency services readily available in case of urgent issues or side effects.

If you have any more questions or need further clarification, don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.