Bimzelx (Bimekizumab-Bkzx) for Psoriasis

Overview
Bimzelx is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis in adults who are candidates for systemic therapy or phototherapy, and for adults with active psoriatic arthritis (PsA). It is also indicated for adults with other inflammatory conditions, including non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis and ankylosing spondylitis. People with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis or active psoriatic arthritis may be eligible for Bimzelx. Bimzelx is also known by its drug name, bimekizumab-bkzx.

Bimzelx is a biologic medication that blocks the activity of interleukin (IL)-17A and IL-17F, proteins involved in the inflammatory processes that contribute to psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. By inhibiting these proteins, Bimzelx helps reduce inflammation, pain, and skin symptoms in these conditions.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Bimzelx is administered by subcutaneous (under the skin) injection. For plaque psoriasis, the recommended dosing schedule is at Weeks 0, 4, 8, 12, and 16, then every eight weeks thereafter. Dosing amount will depend on factors including weight. For psoriatic arthritis, Bimzelx is given every four weeks. If the recipient also has moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, the dosing for plaque psoriasis is used. Bimzelx should be taken exactly as prescribed by a health care provider.

Side effects
According to prescribing information, common side effects of Bimzelx include upper respiratory tract infections, oral candidiasis (yeast infection in the mouth), headache, injection site reactions, tinea infections (fungal skin infections), gastroenteritis (inflammation of the stomach and intestines), herpes simplex infections (viral infections causing cold sores), acne, folliculitis (hair follicle inflammation), other candida infections, diarrhea, and fatigue.

Rare but serious side effects may include suicidal ideation and behavior, infections, tuberculosis (latent or active), elevated liver enzymes, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). People taking the drug should monitor for signs of depression or mood changes and seek immediate medical attention if these occur. Additionally, Bimzelx should not be used in individuals with active IBD and should be discontinued if new or worsening symptoms of IBD develop.

For more information about this treatment, visit:

Bimzelx (Bimekizumab-Bkzx) Injection, for Subcutaneous Use — U.S. Food and Drug Administration

FDA Approves Bimekizumab for Psoriatic Arthritis, Nonradiographic AxSpA, Ankylosing Spondylitis — AJMC