Bimzelx (Bimekizumab)
What is a Generic Drug?
A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
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Product Details
Description
Bimzelx, also known as Bimekizumab, is a new medication used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. It works by blocking certain proteins in the body, specifically IL-17A and IL-17F, that are involved in the inflammation related to psoriasis. This makes it the first treatment that can specifically target both of these proteins. Bimzelx is given as a self-injection, which means patients can administer it themselves at home.
Fact Table
Formula
C6542H10038N1730O2058S46
License
EMA, Health Canada
Bioavailability
~70% (subcutaneous)
Legal status
Prescription only (Rx)
Chemical Name
Bimekizumab (humanized IgG1 monoclonal antibody)
Elimination half-life
~23 days
Dosage (Strength)
160 mg solution for injection
Pregnancy
Consult a doctor (Category Not Assigned)
Brands
Bimzelx
Protein binding
N/A (monoclonal antibody)
PubChem CID
126894961
MedlinePlus
n/a
ChEBI
n/a
ATC code
L04AC21
DrugBank
DB15110
KEGG
D11567
Routes of administration
Subcutaneous injection
Directions
Bimzelx is a medication that is given through an injection under the skin. It’s typically given as a total dose of 320 mg, which is split into two injections of 160 mg each. The usual dosage schedule is as follows:
- First 16 weeks: You will get an injection every 4 weeks.
- After 16 weeks: The injections will change to every 8 weeks.
If you weigh more than 120 kg (265 lbs), your doctor might recommend that you continue getting injections every 4 weeks even after the first 16 weeks. It's important to stick to the schedule your doctor gives you, and make sure to follow the instructions for storing and preparing the medication.
Ingredients
Bimzelx contains an active ingredient known as Bimekizumab-bkzx.
Contraindications
There are no known contraindications on the drug label. However, Bimzelx might not be the right choice if you have a known hypersensitivity to Bimekizumab or any of its components.
Cautions
- Before beginning treatment with Bimzelx, it's important to discuss the following with your healthcare provider:
- Your current health conditions
- Any allergies you may have
- All medications you are currently using
- Whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Clinical trials have noted a higher occurrence of suicidal thoughts in patients on Bimzelx. If you experience mood changes or suicidal thoughts, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
- Bimzelx may raise your risk of infections, particularly respiratory and fungal infections. Do not start treatment if you have an active infection.
- Screen for tuberculosis before starting Bimzelx. Treat latent tuberculosis prior to using this medication and monitor for symptoms during treatment.
- Liver enzyme increases have been linked to Bimzelx. Liver function should be tested before and during treatment, and the medication may need to be paused if liver enzymes rise significantly.
- Avoid Bimzelx if you have active inflammatory bowel disease. Watch for and report any new or worsening symptoms of bowel inflammation.
- Complete all necessary vaccinations before starting Bimzelx, as live vaccines are not recommended during treatment. Discuss vaccination timing with your doctor.
Side Effects
Bimzelx side effects include upper respiratory infections and headaches. Patients might also experience pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site. Other common issues include fungal infections such as oral thrush, herpes simplex infections (like cold sores), and gastroenteritis. Additionally, some people may notice acne, small red bumps on the skin, or feel unusually tired.
Bimzelx can cause serious health issues, particularly affecting the liver and digestive system. Symptoms such as right-sided stomach pain, nausea, dark urine, light-colored stools, or yellowing skin or eyes require immediate contact with a healthcare provider. Those with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis should monitor for worsening symptoms, as Bimzelx may trigger flare-ups or new cases of inflammatory bowel disease.
References
- Bimzelx (Bimekizumab) Product Monograph. Smyrna, GA: UCB, Inc.; 2023.
- Bimzelx (Bimekizumab) Drug Label Information. Smyrna, GA: UCB, Inc.; 2023.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.Product Code : 13775
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