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How often should I skyrizi for Crohn's?: A Guide to the Dosing Schedule

2 min read

According to prescribing information, the treatment plan for Skyrizi in adults with Crohn's disease is divided into two distinct phases: an initial intravenous (IV) induction period followed by subcutaneous (SC) maintenance injections. For those wondering how often should I skyrizi for Crohn's, the frequency starts with three initial IV doses and then transitions to at-home injections approximately every eight weeks.

Quick Summary

Skyrizi treatment for Crohn's disease begins with three intravenous infusions given every four weeks by a healthcare provider. After this initial induction period, patients transition to self-administered subcutaneous maintenance injections, which are typically taken every eight weeks to sustain remission. The exact maintenance dose is determined by your doctor.

Key Points

  • Induction Phase: Three intravenous (IV) infusions are given at Week 0, Week 4, and Week 8 to start treatment.

  • Maintenance Phase: Following induction, subcutaneous (SC) injections are given every 8 weeks, starting at Week 12.

  • Dosage Varies: The maintenance dose is prescribed by your doctor.

  • Self-Administration: Maintenance doses can be self-administered at home after proper training from a healthcare provider.

  • Missed Doses: If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember and then resume your regular schedule.

  • Long-Term Treatment: The maintenance phase is a long-term commitment to manage and sustain remission of Crohn's disease.

  • Medical Supervision: The entire treatment plan must be conducted under the guidance and supervision of a healthcare professional.

In This Article

The Two-Phase Dosing Schedule for Skyrizi

Skyrizi (risankizumab) is a biologic medication used to treat moderately to severely active Crohn's disease by targeting the IL-23 protein. The treatment plan involves two phases to manage the condition and maintain remission: induction and maintenance. Following this schedule under a healthcare professional's guidance is essential for effective treatment.

Phase 1: Induction

The induction phase aims to quickly control symptoms and initiate remission. It involves three intravenous (IV) infusions administered by a healthcare provider.

  • Frequency: Administered at Week 0, Week 4, and Week 8.
  • Administration: Given in a clinical setting over at least one hour.

Phase 2: Maintenance

Following the induction phase, the maintenance phase focuses on preventing flares and sustaining remission with subcutaneous (SC) injections. These can often be self-administered at home after training.

  • Frequency: The first maintenance dose is at Week 12, with subsequent doses every 8 weeks.
  • Administration: Typically given using a prefilled syringe or on-body injector.

Comparison of Skyrizi Crohn's Treatment Phases

Feature Induction Phase Maintenance Phase
Frequency Week 0, 4, and 8 Every 8 weeks, starting at Week 12
Administration Healthcare provider in a clinic Self-administered at home (after training)
Injection Type Intravenous (IV) infusion Subcutaneous (SC) injection
Purpose To rapidly achieve remission To sustain remission and prevent flares

Managing a Missed Skyrizi Dose

If a maintenance dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. Resume your regular schedule afterward. If you are unsure, contact your doctor or specialty pharmacy.

Important Considerations for Treatment

  • Consult Your Physician: A healthcare professional must determine the appropriate dosage and frequency. Always follow their instructions, as the schedule may be adjusted.
  • Long-Term Commitment: Skyrizi is a long-term treatment. Adhering to the maintenance schedule helps prevent flares and maintain remission.
  • Safety Monitoring: Your doctor will monitor for side effects and treatment effectiveness. Regular monitoring, including liver enzyme levels, is necessary, especially during induction.
  • Comprehensive Care: Skyrizi may be part of a larger treatment plan for Crohn's disease.

Conclusion

For adults with moderately to severely active Crohn's disease, the Skyrizi treatment starts with three initial IV infusions over eight weeks, administered by a healthcare professional. This is followed by subcutaneous injections every eight weeks for long-term maintenance. The specific maintenance dose is determined by your physician. Following this schedule under medical supervision is key to effectively managing the disease. For more information, consult the full prescribing information.

Frequently Asked Questions

During the maintenance phase for Crohn's disease, you will receive a Skyrizi subcutaneous injection every 8 weeks. This amounts to approximately six injections per year.

The induction phase involves three intravenous (IV) infusions administered in a clinical setting over the first eight weeks to rapidly control inflammation. The maintenance phase uses subcutaneous (SC) injections given every eight weeks and can be self-administered at home to sustain remission.

Yes, after receiving proper training from your healthcare provider on the injection technique, you can self-administer the subcutaneous maintenance doses at home.

If you miss a maintenance dose, inject it as soon as you remember. After that, you should continue with your regular dosing schedule. For any questions, contact your doctor or healthcare provider.

Each intravenous infusion of Skyrizi for the Crohn's induction phase is administered over a period of at least one hour.

Your doctor will determine the appropriate maintenance dose for you, prescribing the lowest effective dosage needed to maintain a therapeutic response.

No, the dosing schedule for Skyrizi varies depending on the medical condition being treated. The frequency and dosage for Crohn's disease are different from those used for plaque psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis.

References

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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.