Generic name:
Spesolimab - subcutaneous injection
Brand name(s)
Spevigo
Generic name:
Spesolimab - subcutaneous injection
Brand name(s)
Spevigo
This medication is used to treat a severe form of psoriasis (generalized pustular psoriasis). Spesolimab belongs to a class of drugs known as monoclonal antibodies. It works by blocking a certain natural protein in your body (interleukin-36) that may cause inflammation and swelling.
Read the Medication Guide and Instructions for Use provided by your pharmacist before you start using spesolimab and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Before treatment with this medication, your doctor will test you for tuberculosis (TB). Your doctor should also monitor you for symptoms of TB during and after treatment with this drug. If needed, treatment for TB or other infections should be given before using this medication.
This medication is given by injection under the skin in the abdomen or thigh as directed by your doctor, usually every 4 weeks. The first dose given under the skin is usually given by a healthcare provider and may require 4 injections, each given one after the other. All later doses given under the skin usually require 2 injections, given one after the other. If you are switching from the spesolimab product that is injected into a vein, carefully follow your doctor's directions for when to start using this medication.
If you are using this medication at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional. This medication is normally colorless to slightly brownish-yellow. It may contain a few tiny white or clear particles. Before using, check this product visually for large particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid.
Before use, take the medication out of the refrigerator. Let it warm up to room temperature for 15 to 30 minutes. Do not heat this medication any other way, such as by heating in the microwave or placing in hot water. Before injecting each dose, clean the injection site with rubbing alcohol. Change the injection site each time to lessen injury under the skin. Do not inject into any areas of skin that are sore, bruised, red, hard, or scarred.
Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, mark your calendar to keep track of when you need to receive the next dose.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse.
Pain, redness, swelling, or itching at the injection site may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
This medication may lower your ability to fight infections. This may make you more likely to get a serious (rarely fatal) infection or make any infection you have worse. Get medical help right away if you have any signs of infection (such as sore throat that doesn't go away, fever, swollen lymph nodes, chills, cough).
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Before using spesolimab, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
Spesolimab can make you more likely to get infections or may make current infections worse. Stay away from anyone who has an infection that may easily spread (such as chickenpox, COVID-19, measles, flu). Talk to your doctor if you have been exposed to an infection or for more details.
Tell your health care professional that you are using spesolimab before having any immunizations/vaccinations. Avoid getting a live vaccine while using this medication and for 16 weeks after the last dose. Avoid contact with people who have recently received live vaccines (such as flu vaccine inhaled through the nose).
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call 1-844-764-7669.
Do not share this medication with others.
Keep all medical and lab appointments.
It is important to get each dose of this medication as scheduled. If you miss a dose, ask your doctor or pharmacist right away for a new dosing schedule.
Store in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Keep the medication in the original carton to protect from light. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
Information last revised July 2024.
Copyright(c) 2024 First Databank, Inc.
Selected from NATIONAL DRUG DATA FILE (NDDF) data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc., 2019. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider.
The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your health care professional. You should consult your health care professional before taking any drug, changing your diet, or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.