How Long Do Skyrizi Side Effects Last?

Skyrizi (risankizumab-rzaa) is a biologic medication healthcare providers prescribe for moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and other conditions. It works by targeting specific pathways in the immune system that play a role in causing inflammation.

Before starting a new medication, it’s a good idea to have an understanding of the potential side effects.

In this article, we break down the common and serious side effects of Skyrizi and explain how long they typically last. You’ll also learn what factors play a role in how your body may react to the medication and tips for managing side effects.

What is Skyrizi?

Skyrizi is one of the newest biologic medications that treats several conditions, including:

• Moderate to severe plaque psoriasis
• Psoriatic arthritis
• Moderate to severe Crohn’s disease
• Moderate to severe ulcerative colitis

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Skyrizi in 2019 for the treatment of plaque psoriasis. Subsequently, in 2022, it was approved for adults with psoriatic arthritis.

People with plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis can also be treated with medications like methotrexate or cyclosporine. While these medications work quickly by suppressing the entire immune system, and they are proven safe, they can sometimes have side effects when taken long-term.

One benefit of Skyrizi is that, as a biologic medication, it targets specific areas of the immune system that cause inflammation related to psoriasis. Skyrizi blocks a protein called IL-23, which helps calm the overactive immune system and reduce symptoms without affecting the whole immune system.

Skyrizi is administered as an injection. After receiving the initial dose, the second dose is given four weeks later. Moving forward, based on how the skin responds, your dermatology provider may determine that there is flexibility in your dosing schedule.

Many individuals receive a clinical remission while on treatment, meaning there is no longer a visible skin rash. This allows for flexibility in maintenance doses, which can be taken less frequently while maintaining clear skin. 

Common Side Effects of Skyrizi

Many people take Skyrizi without experiencing any problems, but like all medications, there’s the potential for side effects. 

Mild to Moderate Side Effects

According to clinical trials, the most common mild to moderate side effects included:

• Upper respiratory infections
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Redness, pain, and swelling at the injection site
• Fungal infections like ringworm or athlete’s foot

Serious Side Effects & When to Seek Medical Help

Serious side effects are rare, but can happen. Call your medical provider right away if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Fever and chills
• Shortness of breath
• Cough that won’t go away
• Night sweats
• Weight loss
• Muscle aches

Skyrizi can reduce your immune system’s response, putting you at risk for serious infections. These could be signs of a serious infection. 

For a complete list of possible side effects, please see the Skyrizi prescribing information. 

How Long Do Skyrizi Side Effects Last?

While information from the Skyrizi clinical trials doesn’t specifically list how long side effects last, here are some general guidelines.

Mild Side Effects

Upper respiratory infections typically last between seven and ten days, but can sometimes cause symptoms up to three weeks.

Depending on the severity, headache discomfort can last anywhere from 30 minutes to several days.

Injection site reactions, such as redness, pain, swelling, or bruising, typically last only several days.

Fungal infections, like ringworm and athlete's foot, can take several weeks to clear up.

As your body adjusts to taking Skyrizi, you’ll typically experience fewer to no side effects. 

Serious or Long-Term Side Effects

Serious side effects may persist and require medical treatment.

Let your dermatology provider know right away if you believe you are having serious side effects. If you get a serious infection, you’ll likely need to stop taking Skyrizi until your infection resolves.

Factors That Affect Side Effect Duration

Here are several factors that may affect how long you experience side effects from Skyrizi.

Individual Health Conditions

If you have a weakened immune system or a chronic illness, your body may have an even more difficult time fighting off common infections while taking Skyrizi. This can put you at risk of having side effects for longer.

Dosage and Frequency of Skyrizi

Some people take Skyrizi every 12 weeks after the first two doses. However, individuals who experience remission may not need such frequent dosages. In these cases, there is the opportunity to reduce the risk of side effects. 

Interaction with Other Medications

Some medications, in particular other immunosuppressing medications, may interact with Skyrizi and make side effects worse. Before taking any new medication, including Skyrizi, it’s crucial that you talk with your medical provider about all medications and supplements you currently take. 

Managing Skyrizi Side Effects

Here are several tips you can try if you are feeling side effects from Skyrizi.

Over-the-Counter Remedies

• For headaches, try taking over-the-counter pain medication like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, and if needed, rest in a cool, dark room.
• If the injection site is bothering you, try applying a cold compress to the area several times a day.
• For fungal infections, you’ll need to use antifungal creams, ointments, or powders once or twice daily to get rid of the infection.

Lifestyle Changes

• Stay hydrated and eat balanced meals of lean proteins, vegetables, and fruits to support your immune system.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water to avoid infections.
• Get plenty of sleep at night.
• Develop ways to manage stress, such as meditation, stretching, or engaging in activities you enjoy. 

When to Contact a Healthcare Provider

Let your dermatology provider know if you experience side effects. While many are self-resolving, they can evaluate your symptoms and ensure there is no additional treatment needed.

Seek immediate medical attention if you develop difficulty breathing. 

Conclusion / CTA

Skyrizi helps many people manage plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, but it can cause side effects. Most are mild and go away quickly. 

Always keep track of how you feel and talk to your healthcare provider if something doesn’t seem right.

If you think you may benefit from taking Skyrizi, connect with a dermatology provider, like one at Zest. They can discuss Skyrizi and other treatments with you and help you develop a plan for symptom relief.