Anyone who suffers from eczema knows how much itchy, red, and swollen skin can be. Sometimes, this condition is difficult to control with ordinary creams, but new, advanced treatments have now emerged. One such treatment is the Tralokinumab vaccine. Although the name may sound strange, the service it provides is very valuable. Let's talk about this simply, in a way that you can understand.
What is Tralokinumab?
Simply put, tralokinumab is a shot that reduces the swelling, redness, and unbearable itching that your skin experiences due to eczema. Our body's immune system sometimes becomes a little overactive and starts attacking our skin unnecessarily. That's what makes eczema worse. What this shot does is calm down some of the parts of the immune system that are overactive. Like someone who is trying to make peace between two people who are fighting, this medicine reduces the inflammation in your skin and brings you relief.
This is commonly known as Adbry. Your doctor may also use this medicine for other reasons. If you have any questions about it, ask your doctor.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting this medication
This is very important. Before starting this vaccine, it is important to tell your doctor the following information. This will help him or her decide if this medicine is safe for you.
| Situation you need to report | Why is that important? |
|---|---|
| Eye diseases or vision problems | This medication can sometimes affect the eyes, so if you already have eye problems, it's important to let your doctor know. |
| Helminth infection | This medicine may reduce the body's ability to fight off worm infections. Therefore, any such infections should be treated before starting treatment. |
| Recent or upcoming vaccinations | Tralokinumab may reduce the effectiveness of some vaccines, so be sure to tell your doctor before receiving any vaccines. |
| Allergies to other medications, foods, or dyes | If you have an allergy to this medicine or any other substance, it can cause serious reactions. So let us know in advance. |
| If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant | Any medication during pregnancy should only be taken on medical advice. So talk openly with your doctor about this. |
| If the baby is breastfed | It is essential to talk to your doctor to find out if the medication passes to the baby through breast milk and if it has any effect. |
How to use the medicine?
This is a subcutaneous injection. But don't worry, you will be shown exactly how to give it. Usually, a doctor or a trained nurse will give it to you the first time. Then, you may be given training so that you can do it yourself at home.
The most important thing is to take the exact dose, on the exact day, as your doctor tells you. Continue taking it until your doctor tells you to stop.
What do you do with used needles?
This is something that needs to be taken very seriously. Never throw used needles and syringes in the trash. Doing so can be dangerous to others. There is a special container for these (sharps container). If you don't have one, you can ask your doctor for one. Put it in there and get instructions on how to properly dispose of it.
What if I miss a dose?
If this happens, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Then take the next dose as per your regular schedule. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose as scheduled. Never take two doses at once. If you are in doubt, call your doctor.
What are the side effects of taking this medicine?
As with any medication, there are some side effects that can occur. Some require immediate attention, while others are usually not serious. Let's break them down.
| If you experience these symptoms, see a doctor or go to the emergency room immediately. | |
|---|---|
| Serious allergic reactions (Allergic reactions or Angioedema) | Skin rash, severe itching, swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue or limbs, difficulty swallowing, difficulty breathing. |
| Changes in the eyes | Vision changes, new or increasing eye pain. |
| These are usually not serious, but if they persist, tell your doctor. | |
| Eye/eyelid problems | Redness, swelling, or itching of the eyes or eyelids. |
| Vaccination site | Pain, redness, or slight swelling. |
| Other minor features | Runny nose, like a cold, and sore throat. |
What if I take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken more medicine than you should, immediately contact the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital. Or go to the nearest Emergency Department (ETU). This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Never share it with others.
How do you store the medicine?
It is also very important to store this properly.
- Best method: Store in the refrigerator (not the freezer) at a temperature between 2 and 8 degrees Celsius. Keep in the original carton until use. Remove from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before administering the vaccine. Do not put back in the refrigerator once it has reached room temperature.
- Alternative: You can store this medicine at room temperature (below 25 degrees Celsius) for up to 14 days. However, it should be kept in the original container, away from sunlight and heat. If stored at room temperature, do not use it after 14 days.
- Expired medication: Ask your doctor about the safest way to dispose of expired or no longer needed medication.
Take-Home Message
- Tralokinumab is a special injection for severe eczema. It should only be used under the supervision of a doctor.
- Before starting treatment, tell your doctor about any other illnesses you have (especially eye diseases, worm infestations) and any other medications you are taking.
- If you need to get any vaccines while taking this medication, talk to your doctor about it beforehand.
- If you experience severe allergic symptoms such as difficulty breathing, facial swelling, or changes in vision, seek medical advice immediately.
- Always store and dispose of medicine and used needles safely as you have been taught.
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