Are you worried about your skin condition (Plaque Psoriasis)? Sometimes this condition can even hinder you from facing society, right? You must be feeling that it is very difficult to do your daily activities because of these symptoms. So today we are going to talk about the drug called Deucravacitinib, which is available under the brand name SOTYKTU, which is used to treat this condition.
What is Deucravacitinib?
Simply put, this is a medicine that is given to treat plaque psoriasis. Now you might be wondering how this works. Think about it, our body's defense system, that is, the immune system, is like the army of our country. It protects us from diseases. But sometimes this system becomes a little overactive and starts attacking our own healthy cells. That's what happens in plaque psoriasis. What this medicine does is calm down and control that overactive immune system. As a result, the symptoms on the skin gradually decrease.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
It is very important to give your doctor a complete description of your health condition before starting this medication. Because, we need to be very careful when using this medication with certain medical conditions. If you have any of the following, be sure to inform your doctor about it.
| Illness or condition | Why should you tell the doctor? |
|---|---|
| If you have cancer or have had it before | This drug may affect the risk of some cancers. |
| If cholesterol levels are high | This can increase bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglyceride levels. |
| An existing infection (e.g., tuberculosis (TB), other bacterial, fungal, or viral infections) | The medicine weakens the immune system, which can lead to increased infections. |
| Kidney or liver disease | The function of these organs affects the removal of drugs from the body. |
| If you have muscle injury/pain | Because this medicine can affect the muscles. |
| If you have recently received a vaccine or are planning to receive one in the future | This can cause problems, especially with live vaccines. |
| If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding | You should discuss the possible effects on the child with your doctor. |
| If you have allergies to other medicines, foods, or dyes | To be aware of the possibility of an allergy to the medicine. |
How should I use the medicine?
The way to use this is very simple.
- Swallow this tablet with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the tablet. Swallow it whole.
- Try to take your medicine at the same time every day , as prescribed by your doctor. That's how you'll get the best results.
- This can be taken before or after meals, but if you feel an upset stomach, it is best to take it with food.
- Continue using this medicine until your doctor tells you to stop.
Important: If you think you have taken too much medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.
Things to keep in mind when taking medication
It's important to pay a little extra attention to your body when taking this medicine.
Be careful about infections.
This medicine may reduce the activity of your immune system, which may make you more susceptible to infections. So if you develop symptoms of a cold such as fever, chills, sore throat, or cough, if a wound does not heal quickly, or if you have pain when urinating, call your doctor right away. Do not self-medicate. Also, try to stay away from people who are sick.
Be aware of vaccines
You should avoid taking this medicine, especially live vaccines. If you need to get any vaccinations, be sure to tell your doctor that you are taking this medicine.
Cholesterol and Fats
This medication can increase the levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides in your blood. Therefore, your doctor will ask you to have blood tests at regular intervals.
Muscle Problems
If you suddenly experience pain in your muscles, unusual fatigue, weakness, or if your urine turns dark yellow/brown, inform your doctor immediately.
Side effects that may occur due to medication
Like any medicine, this can cause side effects in some people. Some of them should be reported immediately, while others are not so serious.
| Side effect | Description |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions / Angioedema | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, hands or feet, difficulty swallowing or breathing. |
| Infection | Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, non-healing wounds, urinary tract infections, and malaise. |
| Muscle injury | Unusual weakness or fatigue, muscle pain, dark yellow/brown urine. |
| Common side effects that should be reported to the doctor if they persist or are bothersome | |
| Acne | Acne on the face or elsewhere. |
| Mouth or throat sores | Sores with pain, redness, or swelling inside the mouth or throat. |
| Runny nose or stuffy nose | Cold symptoms. |
| Sinus pain | Pain or pressure around the face or forehead. |
| Pus-filled blisters | Small, red, pus-filled blisters that form on the skin around hair follicles. |
Take-Home Message
- Deucravacitinib is a special medicine that controls the immune system and is used to treat psoriasis.
- Before starting the medication, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and other medications you are taking.
- While taking the medicine, be aware of signs of infection such as fever and body aches. If you have any problems, seek medical advice immediately.
- Avoid stopping the medication or changing the dosage without your doctor's advice.
- This medicine is for you only. Do not share it with anyone else for any reason.
💬 අදහස් (0)
තවමත් කිසිදු අදහසක් පළ කර නොමැත. ඔබේ අදහස පළමු වරට මෙහි එක් කරන්න.
ඔබේ අදහස එක් කරන්න