Only those who suffer from certain skin diseases, especially psoriasis, know how difficult and stressful it is to live with them. Some people even refuse to face society because of these patches, itching, and pain on the skin. So, there are new, advanced medications that doctors recommend to control such conditions. Brodalumab is a special injection that is given to control such a severe form of psoriasis. In this article, we will learn everything about this medicine in a very simple and conversational way.
What kind of medicine is Brodalumab?
Okay, let's first see what kind of medicine this is. Brodalumab is not like a regular pill. This is a medicine that belongs to a special class of drugs. Medically speaking, this is a ``Monoclonal antibody'' type of medicine.
Simply put, our body's immune system is what protects us from disease. But in diseases like psoriasis, this immune system malfunctions and starts attacking our own skin cells. That's why we get patches, redness, and flaking on our skin.
The Brodalumab vaccine targets a specific chemical messenger that causes this immune system malfunction and disrupts its function. It's like stopping a bad message from going out. By controlling that malfunction in this way, the skin symptoms gradually decrease.
This medicine is mainly recommended for moderate to severe psoriasis that has not responded to other treatments.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting this medication
This is a very important part. Before your doctor prescribes this medicine to you, he or she will need to know your complete health history. This medicine is not suitable for everyone. Therefore, if you have any of the following conditions, do not hide anything from your doctor. Your safety is the most important thing.
| Do you have these conditions? | Description |
|---|---|
| Infections | If you have any current infection (fever, cough, cold) or develop frequent infections. |
| Tuberculosis (TB) | If you have tuberculosis, have tested positive for it, or have recently been in close contact with someone who has tuberculosis. |
| Crohn's disease | If you have Crohn's disease (a disease of the digestive tract). |
| Mental health problems | If you have or currently have conditions such as depression or suicidal thoughts. |
| Vaccines | If you have recently received a vaccine or are scheduled to receive a vaccine soon. |
| Allergies | If you have an allergy to brodalumab or any other medicine, food, or dye. |
| Pregnancy or breastfeeding | If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. |
How should I use the medicine?
This medicine comes in a prefilled syringe. It is an injection that is given under the skin . You may be given this at a hospital or clinic. Or, you may be taught how to give yourself the injection at home.
- Use it correctly: Get the vaccine exactly as you are taught, on the right days, at the right times. Don't take more or more often than your doctor tells you to.
- Disposing of needles: This is very important. Never throw used needles and syringes in the trash . Doing so can be dangerous to others. These should be placed in a special sharps container. If you don't have one, ask your doctor for one.
What if I miss a dose of medication?
It is very important not to miss a dose. If you miss a dose on your scheduled day, call your doctor immediately for advice. If you are giving yourself a shot, take the dose as soon as you remember. Then, take your next dose at your regular schedule. Never take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.
What if the dose increases?
If you suddenly feel that you have taken an overdose , do not panic and immediately go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) . Alternatively, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
Things to be careful about when taking medicine
You need to pay a little more attention to your body while taking this medicine.
- Mental health: This is very important. Some people taking this medication may experience mood swings, increased depression, or negative thoughts about life. If you or your family notice a sudden change in your behavior, agitation, irritability, or trouble sleeping, talk to your doctor right away . Don't ignore this.
- Protection from infections: As we mentioned earlier, this medicine has some effect on the body's immunity. This means that the ability to fight diseases may be slightly reduced. Therefore, if you experience symptoms such as fever, cold, or sore throat, do not self-medicate and tell a doctor. Try to stay away from crowded places, especially those who are sick.
- Tuberculosis (TB) test: You will be tested for tuberculosis (TB) before starting this medication. If your doctor prescribes medication for TB, you must start taking the TB medication and finish the entire prescription before starting this vaccine.
- Vaccines: If you need to get a vaccine for another disease, be sure to tell your doctor that you are taking Brodalumab. Live virus vaccines are especially not recommended with this medicine.
Side effects that may occur due to medication
Like any medicine, this one can cause some side effects. Not everyone gets them, but it's important to be aware of them.
| Side effect | Description |
|---|---|
| Things to report to your doctor immediately | |
| Severe allergies | Skin rash, severe itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue, difficulty breathing. |
| Signs of infection | Fever, chills, sore throat, persistent cough. |
| Mental changes | Disappointment with life, suicidal thoughts, intense anger, agitation. |
| Stomach pain | Severe or persistent stomach pain. |
| Things to tell your doctor if they persist or are bothersome | |
| Common disorders | Headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle pain, joint pain, fatigue. |
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you experience anything unusual, talk to your doctor about it.
Other medications that may interact with this medicine
Other medications you are taking may affect the way this medicine works. Therefore, tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (including vitamins, herbal remedies, and herbal teas). It is especially important to tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medications:
- Live virus vaccines
- Warfarin (a blood thinner)
- Cyclosporine
- Midazolam
Take-Home Message
- Brodalumab is a special injection given under the skin for psoriasis. It works by targeting a function of the immune system.
- Before starting this medication, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and all other medications you are taking.
- While taking the medication, be vigilant for changes in mental health (especially negative thoughts about life) and signs of infection (fever, cough). If you notice any of these, inform your doctor immediately.
- Dispose of used needles and syringes safely, only in a sharps container.
- Store this medicine in the refrigerator. Never store it in the freezer.
- If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, don't guess, ask your doctor directly.
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