Bimekizumab

Brand names: Bimzelx

A biologic that blocks both IL-17A and IL-17F.

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Bimekizumab
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Animated explainer

Immune cellTarget cellIL-17Medicine
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How it works · Blocking IL-17
Immune cells release IL-17

IL-17 is a chemical messenger. Overactive immune cells release it to call in more inflammation.

What it’s used for

Psoriatic arthritis, axial spondyloarthritis, psoriasis and hidradenitis suppurativa.

How it works

Neutralizing two members of the IL-17 family gives broad control of skin and joint inflammation.

How it’s taken

An injection under the skin every 4 weeks for arthritis.

Side effects

Mouth and skin yeast infections are more common than with other IL-17 drugs. Also colds and, rarely, liver enzyme rises or bowel inflammation.

Monitoring

TB screening and liver tests.

Good to know

Good mouth hygiene reduces yeast infections.

At a glance

Class

Biologics

Brand names

Bimzelx

Reviewed by Farhan Tahir, MD, FACR

Questions about your own care?

Book an in-person or telehealth consultation with Dr. Tahir.

For education only. Don’t start, stop or change a medicine without talking to your care team.