Skyrizi is a prescription medication used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults. It is a biologic drug that helps reduce inflammation and symptoms associated with this chronic skin condition. As with any medication, proper handling and storage are crucial to ensure its effectiveness and safety. In this article, we will explore the impact of improper storage on Skyrizi’s effectiveness and what happens if it is not refrigerated.
Understanding Skyrizi and its Storage Requirements
Skyrizi contains the active ingredient risankizumab, which works by targeting specific proteins in the body’s immune system that contribute to the development of plaque psoriasis. To maintain its potency, Skyrizi needs to be stored properly. The recommended storage temperature for Skyrizi is between 36°F and 46°F (2°C and 8°C). It should be kept in the original carton to protect it from light and stored in a refrigerator.
What Happens if Skyrizi is Not Refrigerated?
If Skyrizi is not refrigerated and exposed to higher temperatures, its effectiveness may be compromised. Skyrizi’s stability and potency can be affected by temperature fluctuations, especially when exposed to temperatures above the recommended range. This is why proper refrigeration is necessary to maintain its therapeutic properties.
Impact on Skyrizi’s Effectiveness
Improper storage of Skyrizi can directly impact its effectiveness in treating plaque psoriasis. Exposure to heat can lead to changes in the chemical composition of the medication, rendering it less potent or even ineffective. When Skyrizi is not refrigerated, the likelihood of these changes increases, diminishing its ability to control inflammation and alleviate psoriasis symptoms.
Reduced Treatment Efficacy
When Skyrizi’s effectiveness is compromised due to improper storage, patients may experience a reduced response to treatment. The intended therapeutic effects might not be achieved, resulting in ongoing or worsening symptoms of plaque psoriasis. As a result, patients may require additional or alternative treatment options, leading to potential delays in finding an effective solution for their condition.
Consequences of Inadequate Storage
The consequences of improper storage can be significant when it comes to Skyrizi. Patients who inadvertently expose their medication to inappropriate temperatures may experience various adverse effects.
Decreased Medication Potency
When Skyrizi is not refrigerated as recommended, the medication’s potency can diminish over time. This decreased potency means that the active ingredient, risankizumab, may not be able to effectively target the immune system proteins responsible for psoriasis. Without its full potential, Skyrizi’s benefits may be limited.
Worsening of Symptoms
Improperly stored Skyrizi may lead to worsened symptoms of plaque psoriasis. The medication’s reduced efficacy can result in continued or increased inflammation, itchiness, redness, and scaling. For patients seeking relief from their psoriasis symptoms, inadequate medication storage can have a detrimental impact on their quality of life and well-being.
Increased Risk of Side Effects
In addition to potential worsening of psoriasis symptoms, improper storage of Skyrizi can also increase the risk of side effects. When Skyrizi is not refrigerated, the likelihood of the medication degrading or becoming contaminated rises. This can lead to unforeseen reactions or adverse effects that could be harmful to the patient’s health.
Preventing Improper Storage
To ensure Skyrizi’s effectiveness and maintain its therapeutic benefits, it is vital to store the medication correctly. Here are some key steps to prevent improper storage:
Keep Skyrizi in the Refrigerator
The most crucial step is to store Skyrizi in the refrigerator between 36°F and 46°F (2°C and 8°C). It should be placed in the original carton and protected from light. The refrigerator provides a stable and controlled environment, preserving the medication’s potency and quality.
Do Not Freeze
While refrigeration is necessary, it is essential to note that Skyrizi should not be frozen. Freezing the medication can cause the formulation to change, leading to a loss of effectiveness. To avoid accidental freezing, make sure the medication is not in contact with any frozen items in the refrigerator.
Check Expiration Date
Always check the expiration date on the Skyrizi packaging before use. Expired medication should never be used, as its effectiveness cannot be guaranteed. Regularly monitoring the expiration date ensures that the medication remains potent and suitable for use.
Consult with Healthcare Provider
If there are any concerns or doubts regarding Skyrizi’s storage or effectiveness, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider. They can provide guidance, answer questions, and offer specific instructions based on individual circumstances.
Conclusion
Proper storage of Skyrizi is crucial for maintaining its effectiveness in treating moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. When not refrigerated, Skyrizi’s stability and potency can be compromised, resulting in reduced treatment efficacy, worsened symptoms, and an increased risk of side effects. It is essential to ensure that Skyrizi is stored at the recommended temperature range and to follow the provided guidelines. By doing so, patients can maximize the benefits of this medication and effectively manage their psoriasis symptoms.