Ixekizumab

• Plaque psoriasis (moderate-to-severe)
• Psoriatic arthritis
• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis
• Pediatric plaque psoriasis (ages 6+)

Ixekizumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody that targets interleukin-17A (IL-17A), a key cytokine involved in inflammatory processes. It is used to treat several autoimmune conditions including plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.

How Ixekizumab Works

Ixekizumab specifically binds to interleukin-17A, preventing it from interacting with the IL-17 receptor. IL-17A is a pro-inflammatory cytokine that plays a central role in psoriasis and related inflammatory conditions. By blocking IL-17A signaling, ixekizumab reduces inflammation and associated symptoms.

Available Formulations

Ixekizumab (Taltz) is available as:

• 80 mg/mL prefilled autoinjector
• 80 mg/mL prefilled syringe

Both formulations are for subcutaneous injection and can be self-administered after proper training.

Medical Uses

Ixekizumab is FDA-approved for:

• Moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis in adults and children 6 years and older
• Active psoriatic arthritis
• Active ankylosing spondylitis
• Active non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis

Dosing Schedule

For plaque psoriasis, the initial dose is 160 mg (two 80 mg injections) at week 0, followed by 80 mg at weeks 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12, then 80 mg every 4 weeks for maintenance. Psoriatic arthritis and spondyloarthritis typically use 160 mg initially, then 80 mg every 4 weeks.

Efficacy

Clinical trials demonstrated impressive skin clearance rates in psoriasis. In the UNCOVER studies, approximately 90% of patients achieved PASI 75 (75% improvement) and nearly 70% achieved PASI 90 by week 12. Response is often visible within the first few weeks of treatment.

Important Safety Information

Ixekizumab may increase susceptibility to infections due to its immunomodulatory effects. Screen for tuberculosis before starting treatment. Live vaccines should be avoided during treatment. Monitor for signs of inflammatory bowel disease, which has been reported in some patients.

Drug Interactions

Ixekizumab may affect cytochrome P450 enzyme activity by reducing inflammation. When starting or stopping ixekizumab, monitoring may be needed for concomitant medications metabolized by CYP450, particularly those with narrow therapeutic indices like warfarin or cyclosporine.

Administration Tips

Allow the medication to reach room temperature before injection (about 30 minutes). Rotate injection sites between thigh, abdomen, and upper arm. Do not inject into areas that are bruised, red, hard, or affected by psoriasis.

Special Populations

Safety has been established in pediatric patients 6 years and older for psoriasis. Use during pregnancy should only occur if benefits outweigh risks. It is unknown whether ixekizumab passes into breast milk. No dose adjustment needed for renal or hepatic impairment.

Learn more at MedlinePlus