Bimzelx (Bimekizumab-Bkzx) for Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Overview
Bimzelx is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for adults with moderate to severe hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). A person must meet the criteria for systemic therapy to be eligible for treatment with Bimzelx. Bimzelx is also known by its drug name, bimekizumab-bkzx.

Bimzelx is a biologic that works by inhibiting interleukin (IL)-17A and interleukin-17F, two proteins involved in inflammation. By targeting these pathways, Bimzelx reduces inflammation and the severity of symptoms associated with HS.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Bimzelx is administered as a subcutaneous (under the skin) injection. For hidradenitis suppurativa, the recommended dosing schedule begins with injections at weeks 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, and 16. After week 16, the drug is given every four weeks. Bimzelx should be administered exactly as prescribed by a health care provider.

Side effects
Common side effects of Bimzelx include upper respiratory tract infections, oral candidiasis (yeast infections in the mouth), headache, injection site reactions, tinea infections (fungal infections), gastroenteritis (stomach flu), herpes simplex infections, acne, folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles), other candida infections, and fatigue.

Rare but serious side effects may include suicidal ideation and behavior, serious infections, tuberculosis, liver biochemical abnormalities (elevated liver enzymes), and inflammatory bowel disease (new or worsening Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis). People are recommended to avoid live vaccines when being treated with Bimzelx.

For more information about this treatment, visit:

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

Bimzelx — Drugs.com