Tremfya (Guselkumab)

Description

Tremfya (Guselkumab) is a monoclonal antibody medication used for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. As a biologic medication, it is derived from parts of living cells. Guselkumab works by targeting interleukin-23, a protein that plays a role in the development of plaque psoriasis. By blocking this protein, Tremfya helps to reduce inflammation and slow the overproduction of skin cells associated with the condition.

Directions

Tremfya comes as a single-dose prefilled syringe containing one 100 mg dose. It is important to use the syringe only once and dispose of it after administering the dose, even if there is medicine left in it.

Before using Tremfya, carefully read and follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider. The medication must be injected under the skin, usually in the front of the thigh, upper arm, or abdomen. Avoid injecting into areas of the skin that are affected by psoriasis or have damaged skin.

The typical dosing schedule for Tremfya begins with an initial dose, followed by a second dose four weeks later. After the second dose, subsequent injections are usually administered every eight weeks. Always consult your doctor for your specific Tremfya dosing schedule.

Ingredients

The primary active ingredient in Tremfya is Guselkumab. In addition to Guselkumab, Tremfya may contain other ingredients that help stabilize the medication and facilitate its effective administration.

Contraindications

Patients with a history of allergy or hypersensitivity reactions to Guselkumab or any of its components should not take Tremfya.

Cautions

• Before starting Tremfya, it’s important to have a detailed discussion with your healthcare provider about:
• Your current health and any ongoing medical conditions.
• All medications you’re taking.

• Any past severe allergic reactions, since Tremfya can cause serious allergies like anaphylaxis. Previous reactions to medications might suggest you're more likely to have a similar response to Tremfya.

• Tremfya may increase infection risks. If you notice symptoms of a new or worsening infection, contact your healthcare provider right away.
• Don’t use Tremfya if you have a serious active infection. If an infection develops during treatment, your doctor may stop Tremfya until you recover.
• Get checked for tuberculosis before starting Tremfya, particularly if you have a history of TB, have been in close contact with someone with TB, or have traveled to areas where TB is common. Tests for TB may include a skin or blood test.
• Discuss the risks and benefits of using Tremfya if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Tremfya is used for long-term control of chronic conditions like plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis and is not for sudden flare-ups of these conditions.

Side Effects

Tremfya, like many medications, can lead to a range of side effects from mild to severe. Commonly reported Tremfya side effects include headaches, upset stomach, discomfort in joints, and infections of the respiratory system. You might also notice redness or swelling at the site where Tremfya was injected.

In rare cases, serious side effects can occur. These include severe allergic reactions or infections. If you experience symptoms such as tightness in the chest, swelling of your face or mouth, difficulty breathing, fever, or intense muscle pain, get medical help right away. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of potential side effects.

References:

1. Tremfya (Guselkumab) Product Monograph. Horsham, PA: Janssen Biotech, Inc.; 2020.
2. Tremfya (Guselkumab) Drug Label Information. Horsham, PA: Janssen Biotech, Inc.; 2023.

About Dr. Gerardo Sison (Page Author)

An honors graduate of the University of Florida, Dr. Sison started his pharmacy career in a community setting, extending his services to hospitals and clinics over time. He has also worked in medication therapy management, advising patients on proper medication use for their chronic health conditions. Read More....