Sometimes skin diseases are very annoying, aren't they? Especially for someone with a condition like Atopic Dermatitis, they know how difficult it is. It's not easy to live with constant itching, redness, and pain. So, a relatively new type of medication that doctors prescribe to treat this condition is called Abrocitinib. Today, we will talk about this medication, how it works, things to be careful about, and side effects, very simply, in our language.
What is Abrocitinib?
Simply put, Abrocitinib is a pill that is used to treat atopic dermatitis. You may know it by the brand name CIBINQO.
This drug belongs to a class of drugs called JAK inhibitors. Think of it this way: our body’s immune system is like an army that protects us from disease. But in conditions like atopic dermatitis, this army becomes a little too active and attacks our own skin. JAK inhibitors work by controlling this overactive activity and reducing inflammation, itching, and redness in the skin. That is, they calm down the immune system’s unwanted response.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting medication
This is very important. Before deciding if abrocitinib is right for you, your doctor will need to know your complete medical history. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:
| Disease or condition | Special points to be informed |
|---|---|
| Infection status | Current or recurring infections (e.g., chickenpox, herpes, tuberculosis (TB), fungal or bacterial infections). |
| Heart disease and blood vessel problems | Heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, a history of blood clots, stroke. |
| Cancer | If you have had cancer before or are currently undergoing treatment. |
| Other medical conditions | Diabetes, kidney or liver disease, lung disease (asthma, COPD), eye disease (e.g. cataracts), low blood cell count (red, white, platelets). |
| Personal and lifestyle | If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. If you smoke. If you have recently received a vaccine or are due to receive one in the future. |
| Allergies | If you are allergic to abrocitinib or any other medicine, food, or dye. |
How exactly do I use this medicine?
To get the most out of a medication, it is very important to use it as directed.
- This is an oral tablet. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
- Most importantly: Do not break, crush, or chew the tablet. Swallow it whole.
- Try to take your medicine at the same time every day , exactly as your doctor prescribed. This will help keep the concentration of the medicine in your blood at the same level.
- You can take this before or after a meal. However, if you feel upset or nauseous, take the medicine with a meal.
- Don't stop taking the medicine until the doctor tells you to.
- You will receive a special instruction leaflet (`MedGuide`) with this medicine from the pharmacy. Read it carefully every time.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is less than 12 hours until your next dose when you remember, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at once.
What if I take too much medicine?
If you think you have accidentally taken more than the prescribed dose, do not delay. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital , or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Other medications that may interact with Abrocitinib
Some medications can affect each other when taken together. This is called `drug interactions`. That's why it's very important to tell your doctor about all the medications you take (including vitamins, herbal remedies, and supplements).
| Medications that should never be taken with Abrocitinib | |
|---|---|
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| Medications that should only be taken under medical advice, as they can cause problems. | |
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Important: This list is not complete. Therefore, inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Things to be especially careful about while taking the medicine
- Regular medical checkups: Your doctor will tell you to see your doctor regularly to monitor your symptoms and the effects of your medication. He or she will also order blood tests to check things like your blood cell count and cholesterol levels. Don't skip them.
- Risk of infection: As we discussed earlier, this medication suppresses the immune system, which can increase the risk of developing infections. If you experience symptoms like fever, chills, cough, sore throat, or non-healing wounds, do not self-medicate and call your doctor immediately.
- Sun protection: Your skin may be sensitive to the sun while taking this medicine. Therefore, avoid going out in strong sunlight. If you do go out, wear clothing that covers your skin and use a good sunscreen.
- Cancer risk: Studies have shown that people taking this medication may have a slightly increased risk of some types of cancer (especially skin cancer) and lymphoma. Don't be alarmed by this, but talk to your doctor about this risk and any new skin spots you notice.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Avoid breastfeeding while taking this medicine and for at least a day after stopping. It may also affect your ability to get pregnant. If you are concerned about this, talk to your doctor.
Side effects of the medicine
Like all medicines, Abrocitinib can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.
| Serious side effects that require immediate medical attention | |
|---|---|
| Allergies | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the lips/tongue/face, difficulty breathing. |
| Blood clot | Leg pain, swelling, warmth, shortness of breath, chest pain. |
| Heart attack | Tightness in the chest, shoulder, arm, nausea, shortness of breath, sweating. |
| Stroke | Sudden numbness/weakness of the face, arm, or leg, difficulty speaking, confusion, difficulty walking. |
| Liver injury | Pain in the upper right side of the abdomen, loss of appetite, yellowing of the eyes/skin, and dark urine. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to your doctor if they are bothersome | |
| Acne | Acne on the face or body. |
| Digestive system problems | Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain. |
| Sore throat | Sore throat or discomfort. |
Take-Home Message
- Abrocitinib is a special medicine that affects the immune system and is used to treat atopic dermatitis.
- Before starting this medication, it is imperative that you tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions and other medications you are taking.
- Swallow the tablet whole with water without breaking, crushing, or chewing.
- Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any serious symptoms such as signs of infection (fever, cough), difficulty breathing, chest pain, or sudden vision changes.
- It is very important to protect yourself from the sun while taking the medication and to have the blood tests prescribed by your doctor on time.
- Do not stop taking the medicine or change the dosage without your doctor's advice. If you have any concerns, discuss them with your doctor.
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