If your health care professional has prescribed SKYRIZI® (risankizumab-rzaa) injections to treat your plaque psoriasis, you might wonder what to expect. The most common question patients have is: What are the possible SKYRIZI side effects? And then the very next question is: How can I manage them?
We will answer both questions here, along with suggestions for where to get the injections. You have options beyond going to a hospital or your doctor’s office. But first, some background.
What is a SKYRIZI injection?
SKYRIZI is a prescription treatment that provides long-term relief from moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. Taking these injections can clear the scaly patches on your skin and relieve joint pain, swelling and stiffness associated with the condition.
SKYRIZI is comes in a prefilled syringe and is delivered by an injection just under your skin by a trained medical technician. Dosages vary, but the most common prescription is start with two doses four weeks apart, and then, get injections every 12 weeks or so.
Given that SKYRIZI treatment requires a long-term program of regular injections, many patients look for more convenient and affordable alternative treatment environments so they don’t have to make repeated doctor appointments or regularly visit a hospital.
What are the most common SKYRIZI side effects?
Like nearly every therapy, SKYRIZI does have side effects. Most SKYRIZI side effects are mild, but some can become quite serious. Here is a list of what you might experience after a SKYRIZI injection and what you can do to minimize them.
Common mild SKYRIZI side effects
Upper respiratory infection like a common cold. You might feel feverish, tired, and develop a stuffy nose or cough. SKYRIZI leaves you vulnerable to infections, so wash your hands often and avoid being near sick people. If you fall ill, call your doctor to rule out something serious. Then pamper yourself with plenty of liquids and rest.
Headache. It might feel like a tension or sinus headache, and it’s no fun. Drink plenty of water and rest in a dim room. If your doctor allows you to take over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol®), they can help.
Feeling a lack of energy. Fatigue can zap your energy after an injection. Get plenty of sleep. A balanced diet and regular exercise can also help. You don’t have to run a marathon; a short, moderate walk works wonders.
Reaction at the injection site. Some people experience bruising, itchy irritation, swelling or inflammation. These usually go away within a day or two. Try a cold compress. If you suspect an allergic reaction, contact your doctor and ask if diphenhydramine (Benadryl®) or a hydrocortisone cream can help.
Fungal infection. You might experience a fungal infection like athlete’s foot, ringworm, or a yeast infection due to your lowered resistance to infection. Prevention is important. Use sanitizer on your hands and feet, avoid public showers and forgo the manicurist. Talk to your doctor about using one of many over-the-counter antifungal creams available.
See your doctor if you have these serious SKYRIZI side effects
Serious SKYRISI side effects are rare, but you will want to get emergency medical help without delay if you experience:
- Fainting or dizziness—these are signs of low blood pressure
- Swelling around your eyes, mouth, or throat
- Trouble breathing or tightness in your throat
- Tightness in your chest
- Skin rash or hives
- Fever, sweats, chills
- Shortness of breath
- Bloody mucus when you cough
- Muscle aches
- Diarrhea or abdominal pain
- Yellowing of eyes or skin
- Burning when urinating or frequent urination
Where can you get SKYRIZI injections?
Your doctor will administer your first few doses, yet you may not want to put up with the inconvenience of scheduling many repeat doctor appointments to manage your long term care. And the expense can really add up.
With a chronic condition like plaque psoriasis, you need a better way to handle the routine of treatment over the long run. A patient-friendly, personalized, comfortable and convenient alternative—in a lower cost setting—can make getting regular SKYRIZI injections a much better experience.
We invite you to explore Infusion for Health. We are a walk-in infusion care center that is a safer alternative to taking your SKYRIZI injections at home, yet a much more personalized and convenient alternative to your doctor’s office. We can fill your SKYRIZI prescription directly in California and expedite the process in other states. Here you will find first-class care in a relaxing and private environment. You are under the care of expert staff in a private suite, making it easier to quickly address any side effects you might have. And we are always here to answer any questions about SKYRIZI side effects.
Talk to your doctor to switch treatment locations and get a referral to an Infusion for Health location convenient to you. Or contact us directly. We’re here to help make it all easy.
