Let's learn about Risankizumab injection in simple terms.

Do you suffer from a long-term, somewhat annoying condition like psoriasis or arthritis? Sometimes our own immune system becomes overactive and starts working against our own body. We call these conditions 'autoimmune conditions'. In such cases, Risankizumab is a special, modern drug that controls the unwanted activity of the immune system. Today, we will talk about this drug, its function, things to be careful about when using it, and side effects, in a very simple way that you can understand.

Exactly, what kind of medicine is this?

Simply put, Risankizumab is a targeted therapy that controls the unwanted activity of your body's immune system. It belongs to a special class of drugs called ``monoclonal antibodies.'' Think of our immune system as our own army. It protects us by fighting off foreign germs. But sometimes this army makes a mistake and starts attacking our own people (that is, our own body's cells). At that time, this ``monoclonal antibody'' works like a special force that selects only the soldiers who are attacking in the wrong way and sends them to control them.

This medicine is mainly used to treat the following conditions:

• Psoriasis: A condition in which skin cells grow rapidly, become red, and peel off like scales .
• Psoriatic Arthritis: Psoriasis can cause joint swelling and pain.
• Crohn's disease: A long-term inflammatory condition of the digestive tract.
• Ulcerative Colitis: Another inflammatory condition that occurs in the large intestine.

This medicine can be found on the market under the brand name Skyrizi .

Things you should tell your doctor before taking medication

Before starting this medication, it is extremely important to inform your doctor about your complete health history, especially the following:

How do you use this medicine?

Risankizumab is a vaccine. There are two ways it can be given to you:

1. Into a vein: This is given by medical staff in a hospital or clinic.

2. Under the skin: This can also be given in a hospital. Sometimes you will be taught how to administer it yourself at home.

If you have to give this at home, don't worry. You will be given the full training required, from how to prepare the medicine to how to give the vaccine.The most important thing is to use the medicine exactly as instructed, exactly as prescribed by the doctor, on the scheduled day.

You will receive a special instruction leaflet (`MedGuide` or `INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE`) with your medicine. Always read and understand it carefully. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to ask your doctor.

What to do if the medication dose is increased or missed?

• Overdose: If you think you have taken an overdose, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital. Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital. Do not take this lightly.
• Missed a dose: If you miss a dose, don't panic. Talk to your doctor for advice on what to do next. Don't make decisions on your own, double the dose, or do anything else.

Things to be especially careful about when taking medication

It's important to pay a little more attention to your health while taking this medication.

Tuberculosis (TB) test

This is very important. Before starting Risankizumab, you will be tested for tuberculosis (TB). This is because some people have latent TB bacteria in their bodies. Taking this medicine can make the latent TB bacteria active. Therefore, if your doctor prescribes you TB medicine, you should start taking it and finish the full course before starting Risankizumab.

Risk of infection

Because this medicine suppresses your immune system, you may be slightly more likely to get infections. It's not something to be too concerned about, but it's important to be aware.

• If you experience symptoms such as fever, malaise, sore throat, cough, or cold , do not self-medicate and tell your doctor.
• Report any non-healing wounds, pain or burning when urinating.
• It is best to avoid places where there are sick people (e.g. people with a cold or flu) as much as possible.

Vaccines

While taking this medicine, your body may respond slightly less to vaccines. Also, live vaccines are not recommended during this time. Therefore, if you need to get any vaccine, always talk to the doctor who is giving you Risankizumab about it and decide on the best time to do so.

Side effects that may occur with this medicine

Like any medicine, Risankizumab can cause side effects in some people, although not everyone gets them. There are two main types.

This list does not include all possible side effects. If you notice anything unusual, please tell your doctor.

How to store the medicine?

If you receive medications to use at home, it is very important to store them properly.

• Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• Store in the refrigerator in the normal section. Never store in the freezer. Do not use if the medicine freezes.
• Protect from direct sunlight. It is best to store the medicine in the same box it came in and in the refrigerator.
• Take the vaccine out of the refrigerator about 30-45 minutes before giving it and let it come to room temperature.
• Never use expired medications. Ask your doctor for advice on how to safely dispose of them.