How Skyrizi Works for Plaque Psoriasis

Skyrizi (risankizumab-rzaa) is a humanized monoclonal antibody that works by selectively targeting and neutralizing interleukin-23 (IL-23), a key cytokine involved in the pathogenesis of plaque psoriasis. Here's how Skyrizi works:

Binding to IL-23: Skyrizi is designed to bind specifically to IL-23, preventing it from interacting with its receptors on immune cells. IL-23 is a cytokine that plays a crucial role in promoting the inflammation and skin cell overgrowth associated with plaque psoriasis.

Neutralizing IL-23 Activity: By binding to IL-23, Skyrizi blocks its interaction with immune cells, particularly T cells and natural killer cells. This prevents the activation and proliferation of these immune cells, which would otherwise contribute to the inflammatory response in psoriasis.

Reducing Inflammation: The neutralization of IL-23 by Skyrizi leads to a reduction in the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-17 (IL-17), interleukin-17A (IL-17A), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha). These cytokines are key mediators of inflammation and skin lesions in plaque psoriasis.

Improving Skin Lesions: By reducing inflammation and skin cell overgrowth, Skyrizi helps to improve the appearance and symptoms of plaque psoriasis. It can lead to a reduction in the size, severity, and number of psoriatic plaques. It can also alleviate symptoms such as itching, burning, and scaling associated with the condition.

Long-Term Maintenance: Skyrizi is typically administered as an injection every 12 weeks after an initial starting dose. It provides long-term maintenance of clear or almost clear skin in many patients with plaque psoriasis. It can help achieve and sustain long-term remission, improving the quality of life for individuals with this chronic condition.

Overall, Skyrizi works by targeting and neutralizing IL-23, thereby reducing inflammation and skin cell overgrowth associated with plaque psoriasis. It offers effective and long-lasting symptom control and improvement in skin lesions for many patients.