Pyzchiva (Ustekinumab-Ttwe) for Psoriasis

Overview
Pyzchiva is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating psoriasis. It is indicated for adults and children 6 and up who have moderate to severe plaque psoriasis or active psoriatic arthritis (PsA). It is a biosimilar to ustekinumab (Stelara). Pyzchiva is also known by its drug name, ustekinumab-ttwe.

Pyzchiva belongs to a class of drugs known as biologics. It works by targeting specific proteins — interleukin (IL)-12 and IL-23 — involved in the inflammatory process that causes psoriatic disease. By inhibiting these proteins, Pyzchiva helps to reduce inflammation, slow the overproduction of skin cells, and reduce joint pain and swelling.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that, for treating psoriatic disease, Pyzchiva is administered via subcutaneous (under the skin) injection. For both psoriasis and PsA in children and adults, dosing usually begins with two doses taken four weeks apart, followed by regular doses every 12 weeks. Dosing sizes vary depending on a person’s weight. The drug should be administered exactly as prescribed by a health care provider.

Side effects
According to prescribing information, common side effects of Pyzchiva for people with psoriatic disease include nasopharyngitis (common cold), upper respiratory tract infection, headache, and fatigue.

Rare but serious side effects may include serious infections, increased risk of malignancies (cancers), hypersensitivity reactions (such as anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction), posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES), and noninfectious pneumonia.

For more information about this treatment, visit:

Pyzchiva (Ustekinumab-Ttwe) Injection, for Subcutaneous or Intravenous Use — U.S. Food and Drug Administration

Pyzchiva — Drugs.com