What Is the Safety Profile of Ixekizumab in PsA and axSpa?

Join Wendy Simmons, PA-C, from Carolina Arthritis Associates in Wilmington, North Carolina, as she explores the safety profile of Ixekizumab in psoriatic arthritis and axial spondyloarthritis. With over 26 years in rheumatology, Wendy shares key insights on how to monitor and manage potential side effects while ensuring safe and effective treatment for patients.

Ixekizumab is generally well tolerated, but like any biologic, it carries potential risks. Common adverse events include mild injection site reactions, upper respiratory infections, nausea, and fungal infections, which are usually manageable. However, more serious risks require close observation, including the possibility of serious infections like tuberculosis and bacterial, viral, or fungal complications that may necessitate discontinuation of therapy.

One important consideration is the potential for Ixekizumab to exacerbate inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in some patients. If IBD symptoms arise or worsen, careful monitoring and possibly discontinuing therapy may be required. Another concern is neutropenia, or decreased neutrophil counts, highlighting the need for regular blood monitoring throughout treatment.

Patients starting Ixekizumab should ensure all immunizations are up to date and avoid live vaccines. When used alongside other immunosuppressive agents, caution is advised due to the potential for additive immunosuppression. While long-term safety data continue to emerge, current research suggests Ixekizumab maintains a stable safety profile with extended use.

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