Taltz (ixekizumab) is a humanized monoclonal antibody that is used to treat moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis, active psoriatic arthritis, and active ankylosing spondylitis in adults.

Description

Taltz is a clear, colorless liquid that is administered by subcutaneous injection (an injection just under the skin). It is available in two forms: a single-use prefilled syringe and a single-use prefilled autoinjector pen.

Uses

Taltz is used to treat the following conditions:

• Moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis: Plaque psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes red, scaly patches to form on the skin. Taltz can help to reduce the severity of psoriasis symptoms and improve the appearance of the skin.
• Active psoriatic arthritis: Psoriatic arthritis is a type of arthritis that affects people with psoriasis. It can cause inflammation and pain in the joints, as well as swelling and stiffness. Taltz can help to reduce inflammation and improve joint function in people with psoriatic arthritis.
• Active ankylosing spondylitis: Ankylosing spondylitis is an autoimmune disease that can cause inflammation in the spine and other joints. It can also lead to stiffness and pain in the back, neck, and hips. Taltz can help to reduce inflammation and improve joint function in people with ankylosing spondylitis.

How to Use

Taltz is given by subcutaneous injection every 4 weeks. Your doctor or nurse will show you how to inject Taltz at home. If you are using the prefilled autoinjector pen, you will need to prime the pen before your first injection.

Dosage

The recommended dosage of Taltz is 80 mg every 4 weeks. For the first dose, you will receive two 80 mg injections on the same day. After that, you will receive one 80 mg injection every 4 weeks.

Mechanism of Action

Taltz works by blocking the activity of interleukin-17A (IL-17A), a protein that is involved in inflammation. IL-17A plays a role in the development of plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. By blocking IL-17A, Taltz can help to reduce inflammation and improve symptoms.

Storage Conditions

Taltz should be stored in the refrigerator at 36ºF to 46ºF (2°C to 8°C). It can be left at room temperature for up to 30 minutes before injecting.

Precautions

Taltz should be used with caution in patients with a history of allergic reactions to other monoclonal antibodies. It is also important to tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, and vitamins.

Interactions

Taltz may interact with other medications that affect the immune system. It is important to tell your doctor about all of the medications you are taking before starting Taltz.

Contraindications

Taltz is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to ixekizumab or any of the excipients in the drug.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Taltz are injection site reactions, such as pain, redness, swelling, and itching. Other side effects may include headache, nausea, and diarrhea.

Overdose

There is no information available on overdose of Taltz. If you accidentally inject more Taltz than prescribed, contact your doctor or poison control center immediately.

Additional Information

Taltz is a relatively new drug, and it is still being studied. However, it has been shown to be effective in treating moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis, active psoriatic arthritis, and active ankylosing spondylitis in clinical trials.

Taltz is generally well-tolerated, and the most common side effects are mild and transient. Taltz is a self-injectable drug, which means that patients can inject it themselves at home.