Tremfya (guselkumab) is a brand-name drug approved to treat ulcerative colitis (UC). This article covers topics such as side effects, dosage, and how Tremfya works.
Tremfya is available as a solution for subcutaneous injection in these forms: single-use, prefilled syringes, pens, or One-Press injectors. The drug is also available as a solution for intravenous (IV) infusion in single-use vials.
Tremfya is a biologic and belongs to a drug class called interleukin-23 blockers. The medication is not available in a biosimilar version.
Read on for more information about Tremfya. You can also refer to this comprehensive overview of Tremfya to find out about its other uses.
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a condition that causes inflammation and ulcers (sores) in the lining of the large intestine (colon). It’s a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
You can learn more about UC by visiting our IBD hub.
Symptoms of ulcerative colitis
Symptoms of UC may include:
- diarrhea
- abdominal pain
- loss of appetite
- weight loss
- fatigue
Who Tremfya is prescribed for
Tremfya is prescribed for adults with moderate to severe symptoms of UC.
The following details explain how Tremfya works to treat UC.
The way Tremfya works
UC can happen when the immune system becomes overactive, leading to inflammation and damage to the large intestine.
Tremfya targets a protein called interleukin-23 (IL-23). This protein is thought to play a role in an overactive immune system. By blocking IL-23, Tremfya can help reduce inflammation and ease symptoms of UC.
To learn more about how Tremfya works, talk with your doctor or visit the drug manufacturer’s website.
Tremfya and children
Tremfya is not approved for use in children.
Tremfya has been shown to be effective in treating UC. In clinical trials, treatment with Tremfya eased symptoms of UC and helped achieve episodes of remission.
To learn more about how Tremfya performed in clinical trials, refer to the drug’s prescribing information. You can also visit the drug manufacturer’s website or talk with your doctor.
The following information gives the Tremfya dosage for UC that’s typically prescribed or recommended. However, your doctor will determine the dosage that’s best for your needs.
For more information about the drug’s dosage forms and strengths, you can refer to our Tremfya dosage article or the drug’s prescribing information.
Dosage for UC
For UC, you’ll receive the first three doses of Tremfya as an IV infusion. Then, you may receive the drug as a subcutaneous injection.
The typical starting dosage of Tremfya is 200 milligrams (mg) per infusion. You’ll receive one infusion every 4 weeks for three doses.
The start of your ongoing Tremfya injections will depend on the dosage your doctor prescribes. You may receive one of the following dosages:
- 100 mg every 8 weeks, starting 8 weeks after your final infusion
- 200 mg every 4 weeks, starting 4 weeks after your final infusion
Note: In addition to treating UC, Tremfya has other uses. Keep in mind that the drug’s dosage may differ with these other uses. To learn more, talk with your doctor.
How to use
A healthcare professional will give the first three doses of Tremfya as an IV infusion. An IV infusion is an injection into a vein that’s given over a period of time. Tremfya infusions are typically given over 1 hour.
You’ll receive ongoing doses of Tremfya as a subcutaneous injection. A healthcare professional will teach you or a caregiver how to inject the drug under the skin of your upper arm, lower abdomen, or front thigh.
If you have other questions about using Tremfya, visit the drug manufacturer’s website or talk with your doctor.
How often to use
For UC, you’ll receive the first three infusions of Tremfya 4 weeks apart. Depending on the dosage you’re prescribed, you’ll then receive one injection of Tremfya every 4 or 8 weeks.
Tremfya is meant to be a long-term treatment for UC. If the drug is safe and effective for you, you’ll likely receive it long term.
The use of Tremfya for UC may cause side effects that are mild or serious. The following lists include some of the main side effects that have been reported with Tremfya. For information about other potential side effects of the drug, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. You can also see this article about Tremfya side effects or refer to the drug’s prescribing information.
Note: Tremfya is also approved to treat other conditions. It’s important to note that side effects from Tremfya may differ depending on the condition it’s being used to treat.
Mild side effects
These are some of the mild side effects that may occur with Tremfya for UC:
- mild infection, such as influenza (the flu) or the common cold
- joint pain
- injection site reactions, such as bleeding, itching, or pain near the injection area
These side effects of Tremfya may be temporary, lasting a few days to weeks. But if they last longer than this, bother you, or become severe, it’s important to talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
Serious side effects
Serious side effects of Tremfya may include serious infections, such as tuberculosis (TB). Symptoms of a serious infection may include:
Call your doctor right away if you develop serious side effects while using Tremfya. If the side effects seem life threatening or you think you’re having a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.
Note: After the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves a medication, it tracks and reviews side effects of the drug. Sharing your experience helps make medications safer for everyone by giving doctors and researchers more information about how the drug works in real life. If you develop a side effect during Tremfya treatment and would like to inform the FDA, visit MedWatch or call 800-FDA-1088.
ALLERGIC REACTIONFor some people, Tremfya can cause an allergic reaction. But this side effect wasn’t reported in the drug’s clinical trials.
In general, symptoms of allergic reaction can be mild or serious.
Ways to manage
For mild allergic reaction symptoms, such as a mild rash, call your doctor right away. They may recommend treatments to help manage your symptoms. They’ll also let you know whether you should keep taking the medication.
For severe allergic reaction symptoms, such as swelling or trouble breathing, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. These symptoms require immediate medical care because they can become life threatening. If you’ve had a serious allergic reaction to Tremfya, your doctor may recommend a different medication instead.
Before you start Tremfya, there’s some important information to keep in mind. The drug may not be a safe option if you have certain medical conditions or other factors that affect your health. Some of these are mentioned here.
If any of the following medical conditions or other health factors are relevant to you, talk with your doctor before receiving Tremfya:
- if you have an infection or ever had TB
- if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or considering either
- if you’ve had an allergic reaction to Tremfya or any of its ingredients
The cost of Tremfya is based on several factors. These can include your prescribed treatment regimen, your insurance plan, the pharmacy you use, and your location.
Tremfya is a brand-name drug. It’s a biologic that’s not available in a biosimilar version. Brand-name biologics usually cost more than biosimilars. Here’s more information about Tremfya and cost.
Disclaimer: Medical News Today has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.
