Common side effects of bicizumab and countermeasures

Bimekizumab is a new type of humanized IgG1 monoclonal antibody that mainly inhibits IL-17A and IL-17F cytokines through dual targeting, thereby showing significant anti-inflammatory effects in the treatment of moderate to severe psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis and other autoimmune diseases. Although its efficacy is widely recognized, it may still cause some common side effects during use. Especially under long-term immune system regulation, some patients may experience uncomfortable reactions. According to existing international clinical research data, the most common side effects of bicizumab include respiratory infections (such as nasopharyngitis), oral fungal infections (such as thrush), injection site reactions, fatigue, diarrhea, headache, etc.

Among them, oral candida infection (fungal infection) is a more representative side effect, which is related to the unique inhibition of bicizumabIL-17F mechanism, because IL-17F is involved in the natural immune defense against fungi. This type of infection usually manifests as white spots on the oral mucosa, burning sensation, or difficulty swallowing. Most of them are mild to moderate and can be controlled with antifungal drugs such as fluconazole or nystatin. In addition, some patients may experience redness, swelling, itching or induration at the injection site. Most of these reactions are mild and self-limiting and can be relieved by cold compresses or short-term use of anti-inflammatory drugs.

To better manage these side effects, it is recommended that patients undergo comprehensive infection screening, including evaluation for a history of active infection, before receiving bicizumab. During treatment, pay attention to maintaining oral hygiene, avoiding high-sugar diet, and regularly monitoring liver and kidney function and white blood cell count to detect signs of infection or allergies in time. If the patient develops persistent fever, sore throat, severe oral discomfort or rash, he should stop taking the medicine in time and seek medical treatment.

Reference materials:https://www.drugs.com/bimekizumab.html