For patients · Medication guide

IL-17 inhibitors

secukinumab, ixekizumab, bimekizumab, anti-IL-17

Are you a clinician? See the clinical version of this page.

The short versionIL-17 inhibitors are a type of biologic medicine. They block a specific inflammation signal called IL-17. They are used in psoriatic arthritis, axial spondyloarthritis, and psoriasis, and can help the joints, the tendons, the spine, and the skin.

How you take it

These are biologic medicines given by injection under the skin that block IL-17, a signal that drives inflammation, mainly in psoriatic arthritis and spine-related arthritis (axial spondyloarthritis). They usually start with weekly injections for the first month, then move to every 4 weeks.

Secukinumab (Cosentyx): Injections weekly for the first month (weeks 0 to 4), then one injection each month. Some people need a higher 300 mg dose.
Ixekizumab (Taltz): For psoriatic arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis, a larger starting dose, then one injection every 4 weeks. For non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis, one injection every 4 weeks with no starting dose.
Bimekizumab (Bimzelx): One injection under the skin every 4 weeks. If you also have moderate-to-severe psoriasis of the skin, you may start on a different schedule. Yeast infections in the mouth (thrush) are more common with this medicine, so tell your team if you notice white patches or soreness.

Tests while you take it

You are checked for tuberculosis before starting. Tell your team about new or worsening bowel symptoms, as these medicines can occasionally aggravate inflammatory bowel disease.

What to know

Common side effects

The most common effects are reactions where the injection is given and a higher chance of infections. They can also make fungal (thrush) infections, such as in the mouth or genitals, more likely.

Tests and monitoring

Before starting, your team checks for hidden infections such as tuberculosis. While on treatment, tell your team about infections and any bowel symptoms.

Important cautions

IL-17 inhibitors can bring on or worsen inflammatory bowel disease, so they are used with care, or avoided, if you have Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. Tell your team before any live vaccine.

+Planning a pregnancy? This medicine has separate, reviewed reproductive-health guidance. See the pregnancy guide for this medicine.

iThis page helps you prepare a conversation with your care team. It does not replace individual medical advice. Always confirm your own plan with your rheumatology team.

What to watch for

Signs of infection with a fever, or an infection that does not clear.
White patches or soreness in the mouth or genitals (thrush).
New or worsening tummy pain or diarrhoea, sometimes with blood.