Taltz (ixekizumab) is a prescription medication used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis in adults. It is a monoclonal antibody that works by blocking interleukin 17A (IL-17A), a cytokine that plays a key role in the development and progression of these inflammatory diseases.
Uses
Taltz is used to treat:
- Moderate to severe plaque psoriasis
- Psoriatic arthritis
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis
Storage Conditions
Taltz should be stored in the refrigerator at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). Do not freeze. Taltz can be kept at room temperature for up to 24 hours.
Mechanism of Action
Taltz is a monoclonal antibody that binds to IL-17A and blocks its interaction with the IL-17 receptor. IL-17A is a cytokine that plays a key role in the development and progression of inflammatory diseases such as psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis. By blocking IL-17A, Taltz can help to reduce inflammation and improve the symptoms of these diseases.
How to Use
Taltz is administered by subcutaneous injection every 4 or 12 weeks, depending on the condition being treated. The recommended dose is 80 mg. Taltz can be self-injected or injected by a healthcare professional.
Important Safety Information
Taltz can increase the risk of serious infections, including tuberculosis. Before starting Taltz, your doctor will test you for tuberculosis. Taltz can also reactivate latent tuberculosis infection.
Taltz can also increase the risk of other side effects, such as:
- Allergic reactions
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Psoriasis worsening
- Injection site reactions
- Upper respiratory tract infections
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Fatigue
Indications
Taltz is indicated for the treatment of adults with:
- Moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who are candidates for systemic therapy or phototherapy
- Active psoriatic arthritis
- Active ankylosing spondylitis
- Active non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis with objective signs of inflammation
Precautions
Taltz should be used with caution in patients with a history of serious infections, tuberculosis, IBD, or other autoimmune diseases.
Taltz should not be used in patients who have a history of severe allergic reactions to Taltz or other biologic medications.
Interactions
Taltz may interact with other medications, including live vaccines and biologic medications. Be sure to tell your doctor about all of the medications you are taking before starting Taltz.
Contraindications
Taltz is contraindicated in patients with a history of severe allergic reactions to Taltz or other biologic medications.
Overdose
There is no known overdose of Taltz.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Taltz are upper respiratory tract infections, headache, diarrhea, nausea, fatigue, and injection site reactions.
More serious side effects of Taltz include serious infections, IBD, psoriasis worsening, and allergic reactions.
If you experience any side effects while taking Taltz, be sure to tell your doctor.
Conclusion
Taltz is a safe and effective treatment for moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis in adults. It is important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of Taltz before starting treatment.
dfoster_dermlife –
I’ve been on Taltz for nearly a year now, and it continues to deliver consistent results. My psoriasis plaques have diminished, and my overall quality of life has improved. The medication is easy to administer and fits well into my routine.
Laura Simmons –
Taltz has improved both my joint symptoms and skin condition dramatically. It’s helped reduce inflammation and flare-ups without any serious side effects. The injection pen is convenient, and the support from my healthcare team has been excellent.
mreynolds_activehealth –
I started Taltz under my dermatologist’s care, and the results were noticeable much faster than I expected. My skin cleared up, and the joint pain associated with psoriatic arthritis has decreased substantially. Easy to use and very reliable.
Jessica Collins –
Taltz has been a breakthrough in managing my psoriasis. After months of struggling with flare-ups, this medication cleared my skin significantly within weeks. The injections are straightforward, and I’ve experienced minimal side effects. Highly recommend for anyone with moderate to severe psoriasis.