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Table of Contents
What is Yusimry?
Yusimry stands as a biosimilar to Humira, functioning as a TNF alfa inhibitor utilized to alleviate pain, inflammation, and skin symptoms associated with chronic autoimmune conditions. Its applications encompass the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis, plaque psoriasis, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and uveitis.
Yusimry as a Biosimilar
Yusimry, or adalimumab-aqvh, is specifically designed as a biosimilar to Humira, adhering to the concept of biologic medicines closely resembling the original product from another company. It is crucial to note that Yusimry is not interchangeable with other biosimilars. The available formulations include Yusimry Pen, a single-dose prefilled pen (40 mg/0.8mL), and a Single-dose prefilled glass syringe (40 mg/0.8 mL).
How does Yusimry work?
In normal immune system function, the body defends itself against diseases by combatting harmful bacteria or viruses. However, autoimmune disorders trigger an overactive immune response, leading to the attack of one’s own tissues and resulting in autoimmune condition symptoms. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) is a pivotal protein in causing inflammation, and Yusimry, acting as a TNF blocker, inhibits TNF. This mechanism aids in alleviating pain, inflammation, and skin symptoms. Yusimry is classified as a recombinant human monoclonal antibody.
Related/Similar Drugs
Entyvio, Bimzelx, Cimzia, Otezla, Skyrizi, Stelara, Tremfya
What is Yusimry used for?
FDA approval grants Yusimry the status of a treatment for the signs and symptoms associated with various conditions:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in adults, when active and moderate to severe. It can be used alone or in combination with methotrexate or other non-biologic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs).
- Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (moderate to severe polyarticular) in children aged 2 years and older, to be used alone or with methotrexate.
- Psoriatic arthritis in adults, either alone or with other non-biologic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs).
- Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) in adults.
- Hidradenitis suppurativa (moderate to severe) in adults.
- Crohn’s disease (moderate to severe) in patients 6 years of age and older.
- Ulcerative colitis (moderate to severe) in adults. The effectiveness of Yusimry is unknown in individuals who stopped responding to or couldn’t tolerate TNF-blocker medicines.
- Plaque psoriasis (chronic and severe) in adults who may benefit from injections, pills (systemic therapy), or phototherapy (treatment using ultraviolet light alone or with pills). Yusimry is considered when other systemic therapies are less medically appropriate.
- Uveitis (UV) for non-infectious intermediate, posterior, and panuveitis in adult patients.
Warnings
Yusimry significantly impacts the immune system, potentially increasing susceptibility to infections, including serious or fatal ones. Before or during treatment, it’s crucial to inform your doctor of signs such as fever, chills, aches, tiredness, cough, skin sores, diarrhea, or a burning sensation during urination. Tuberculosis (TB) testing is essential before starting Yusimry, with close monitoring during treatment. There is a potential increase in cancer risk for both children and adults taking TNF-blockers.
Before Taking Yusimry
Before initiating Yusimry, inform your doctor about signs of infection, any history of tuberculosis, chronic infection, cancer, hepatitis B, diabetes, heart failure, nerve-muscle disorders, allergies to latex rubber, scheduled major surgeries, or recent vaccinations. Knowledge about your residence and recent travel plans is also essential.
Pregnant individuals should discuss potential harm to the unborn baby, and breastfeeding mothers should consult their doctor about potential risks and the most suitable feeding methods.
How should I use Yusimry?
Yusimry should be administered precisely as prescribed, following all directions on the prescription label and accompanying medication guides or instruction sheets. The subcutaneous injection under the skin can be facilitated using an autoinjector or a prefilled syringe. The injection site should be chosen carefully, and instructions regarding preparation and storage should be adhered to. Regular medical examinations are necessary due to the impact on the immune system.
Dosing information
Yusimry is available in two forms:
- Yusimry Pen Injection: 40 mg/0.8 mL in a single-dose pen.
- Yusimry Prefilled Syringe Injection: 40 mg/0.8 mL in a single-dose prefilled glass syringe.
The dose and frequency depend on age, severity, and the condition being treated.
Missed Dose and Overdose
If a dose is missed, the medicine should be used as soon as remembered, avoiding extra doses to compensate for the missed one. In case of an overdose, seek emergency medical attention.
What to avoid
Avoid injecting into bruised, red, tender, or hard skin. Being in proximity to sick individuals is discouraged, and receiving a “live” vaccine while
