Lebrikizumab

What is this medication for?

Lebrikizumab is used to treat moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (eczema). 

Lebrikizumab belongs to a class of medications called biologics. Biologics are genetically-engineered proteins. Lebrikizumab works by blocking the activity of a protein called Interleukin-13 (IL-13). IL-13 levels are higher in people with atopic dermatitis. This medication helps to reduce the inflammation, improve skin condition, reduce itch, redness and scaling. 

Lebrikizumab does not work immediately, and it may take several weeks before you notice any improvement in symptoms.

How should I take or use this medication?

• Lebrikizumab should be used exactly as prescribed by the doctor.
• Lebrikizumab comes as a single dose injection in a pre-filled pen.
• It is administered under the skin as a subcutaneous injection, into the thigh or abdomen, except for 5 cm around the navel (belly button). If somebody else is administering the injection for you, he/she can inject in the back of your upper arm.
• Rotate the injection site with each injection. Avoid injecting into areas where the skin is tender, damaged, bruised, red, hard, or in an area of skin that is affected by atopic dermatitis or other skin problems.
• You and your doctor or nurse will decide if you can inject Lebrikizumab yourself. You or your caregiver should receive training on how to inject the medication from your doctor, pharmacist, or specialty nurse before attempting the administration on your own.
• Do not stop using the medication without discussing it with your doctor. Your doctor will decide how much Lebrikizumab you need and for how long it has to be used for. Stopping Lebrikizumab suddenly may cause the symptoms of your condition to return.

What should I do if I forget to take or use this medication?

If you miss a dose, inject the missed dose as soon as possible, then inject your next dose at your regularly scheduled time, starting on the new dose day.

What precautions should I take when taking or using this medication?

Inform your healthcare professional if:

• You are allergic to this medication or any of the other ingredients of this medication.

• You have eye problems.

• You have a parasitic helminth (worm) infection. 

• You are planning to receive any vaccination. 

• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. 

  • Avoid getting pregnant while you are using Lebrikizumab as the effect in pregnant women is unknown. 

  • If you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, discuss with your doctor to decide if you should breastfeed or use Lebrikizumab. 

What are some common side effects of this medication? ​

Common side effects include:

• Eye and eyelid inflammation which includes redness, swelling, dryness, and itching.

• Injection site reactions like swelling, itching, or bruising, which usually subside in 3-5 days. 

Inform your doctor if any side effect persists, if you are unable to tolerate them or the side effects become serious. 

What are some rare but serious side-effects that I need to seek medical advice immediately? 

• Worsening eye problems such as eye pain or changes in vision

• Allergic reactions such as 

  • Difficulty breathing 

  • Fainting, dizziness, feeling lightheaded

  • Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue

  • Itchy rashes over your whole body 

• Cramps in your stomach area (abdomen)

• Shingles (painful, blistering rash in one part of the body)

What food or medication should I avoid when I take or use this medication?

Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking other medications as they may interact with Lebrikizumab. These include

• Over-the-counter medications

• Nutritional supplements

• Traditional or herbal remedies

Discuss with your doctor before receiving any vaccination. 

How do I throw away this medication safely? ​

• You may throw the used pre-filled pen in a metal tin or thick plastic container (e.g., detergent bottles). 

• You can also buy a container that is specially designed to prevent any accidental injuries due to contact with discarded knives and needles, known as a Sharps Box.