Managing Side Effects: A Guide on Dealing with Them, as Per Bimzelx
In recent developments, a new drug called Bimzelx has been approved for treating moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and moderate to severe hidradenitis suppurativa.
However, it's essential to be aware of the potential side effects and precautions associated with Bimzelx.
To help reduce discomfort while injecting Bimzelx, you can remove the syringe from the refrigerator 30 to 45 minutes before your injection. Your doctor may also recommend an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen to help reduce inflammation and pain at the injection site.
Common side effects of Bimzelx include headaches, fatigue, reactions at the injection site, upper respiratory tract infections (such as the common cold), herpes simplex infection (cold sore in or around the mouth), small discolored bumps on the skin, tiredness, fungal infections (oral thrush or infection involving the mouth, throat, skin, nails, feet, or genitals), pain, discoloration or swelling at the injection site, stomach flu (gastroenteritis), acne, and injection site reaction.
It's crucial to discuss your health history with your doctor before starting Bimzelx, including any history of depression or suicidal thoughts or behaviors, infection, liver problems, tuberculosis, and vaccinations.
Bimzelx may cause liver enzyme elevations and potential liver injury, requiring close long-term monitoring of liver function tests during therapy. Patients with acute liver disease or cirrhosis are advised to avoid using Bimzelx due to increased risks. Symptoms indicating liver problems to monitor for include right-side abdominal pain, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, itching, dark urine, light-colored stools, and jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes).
If you experience injection site reactions that get worse over time instead of better, talk with your doctor. In case of a medical emergency or if you or someone you know is in crisis and considering suicide or self-harm, seek immediate help: call or text the 988 Lifeline at 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org, text HOME to the Crisis Text Line at 741741, or call 911 or your local emergency services number. If you're calling on behalf of someone else, stay with them until help arrives.
For more information about Bimzelx, its side effects, and its prescribing information, consult a healthcare professional. If you experience serious side effects during treatment with Bimzelx, call your doctor right away. If the side effects seem life-threatening or you think you're having a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.
Bimzelx comes as a liquid solution for subcutaneous injection (under the skin). Other serious side effects of Bimzelx may include elevated liver enzymes, suicidal thoughts or behaviors, inflammatory bowel disease, and severe infection.
In conclusion, while Bimzelx offers a promising new treatment option for various skin and joint conditions, it's essential to be aware of its potential side effects and precautions. Always discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.
