How to Get Skyrizi Psoriasis Medication Through Specialty Pharmacy

Accessing Skyrizi Through Specialty Pharmacies

Skyrizi is a biologic medication used to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. It works by blocking interleukin-23 (IL-23), a protein that plays a role in inflammatory and immune responses. Like other specialty drugs, Skyrizi is expensive and usually dispensed through specialty pharmacies.

Understanding Skyrizi

Skyrizi contains the active ingredient risankizumab-rzaa and is administered as a subcutaneous injection. It was approved by the FDA in 2019 as a treatment for adults with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who are candidates for systemic therapy or phototherapy.

In clinical trials, Skyrizi was found to significantly clear psoriasis plaques and improve quality of life. Over 90% of patients achieved 90% clearer skin after just 4 doses. Skyrizi is part of a new class of psoriasis drugs known as IL-23 inhibitors.

Why Use a Specialty Pharmacy for Skyrizi?

Specialty pharmacies focus on managing and distributing medications for complex, chronic conditions like psoriasis. They offer services like:

• Help navigating insurance coverage and prior authorization
• Financial assistance programs to lower out-of-pocket costs
• Convenient delivery options for medications
• Training and guidance on proper medication administration
• Monitoring for side effects and drug interactions

This comprehensive, patient-centered care helps improve outcomes when taking a specialty drug like Skyrizi.

How to Get Skyrizi Through a Specialty Pharmacy

Follow these key steps when being prescribed Skyrizi:

1. Get your prescription from your doctor - Your dermatologist will assess if Skyrizi is appropriate for you and provide a written prescription if so.
2. Confirm your coverage - Check with your health insurance to see if Skyrizi is covered. They may require prior authorization from your doctor.
3. Find a specialty pharmacy - Your doctor or insurance can suggest in-network pharmacies. Large chains like CVS Specialty and Walgreens Specialty Pharmacy also distribute Skyrizi.
4. Enroll with the pharmacy - Provide your prescription, insurance information and medical history. This helps manage dosage, refills and coordination of care.
5. Obtain prior authorization - If required, the pharmacy will handle getting approval from your insurer to dispense Skyrizi.
6. Discuss costs - Ask about your out-of-pocket costs. The pharmacy can explain coverage and financial assistance options.
7. Make delivery arrangements - Most specialty meds are delivered. Choose a location, date and timing that works best.

Choosing a Specialty Pharmacy

Consider these factors when selecting a specialty pharmacy for your Skyrizi:

• Covered by your insurance - Confirm they are in-network to maximize benefits.
• Services offered - Look for pharmacies that provide injection training, counseling and prompt support.
• Cost and financial help - Ask about copays, how billing works and assistance programs.
• Accreditation - Choose a pharmacy that meets quality standards for safety and care.
• Reputation - Look for high ratings, positive reviews and recommendations from other patients.
• Shipping options - Ensure they offer speedy, reliable delivery to your location.

Doing your research helps find the right specialty pharmacy for your needs and situation.

Affording Skyrizi

Skyrizi costs around $4,500 for the initial dose and $2,500 for subsequent doses every 4 weeks. Here are some tips for making it more affordable:

• Take advantage of manufacturer discounts - The Skyrizi Complete program offers co-pay assistance.
• Look into third party non-profits - Groups like the HealthWell Foundation provide grants.
• Enroll in Medicaid if eligible - State programs can offer coverage for expensive drugs.
• Consider Medicare drug plans - For seniors, Part D plans include specialty tier options.
• Appeal or negotiate costs if able - Some plans may lower out-of-pocket expenses.
• Purchase vouchers when possible - They provide a one-time co-pay discount.

Be sure to communicate your financial constraints so the specialty pharmacy can provide resources and maximize your benefits.

Administering Skyrizi

Skyrizi is given as a subcutaneous injection under the guidance of your specialty pharmacy. Here are some tips for managing self-injections:

• Schedule doses on your calendar to stay on track.
• Let the medication come to room temperature before injecting.
• Rotate injection sites around the thighs or stomach.
• Use an alcohol swab to clean your skin.
• Insert needle fully into the skin at a 45 degree angle.
• Push plunger slowly and hold for 10 seconds before removing.
• Discard syringes in a sharps container after use.

Your specialty pharmacist can walk you through the proper technique. Report any side effects or issues right away.

Monitoring Treatment Progress

While taking Skyrizi, your dermatologist and specialty pharmacy will monitor your psoriasis and overall health. Be sure to:

• Attend all follow up appointments.
• Note medication effects and side effects.
• Get recommended bloodwork to check for infections.
• Communicate openly with your healthcare team.
• Keep taking Skyrizi even if skin clears to prevent flares.
• Discuss any changes needed to dosing or frequency.
• Report on quality of life improvements.

Skyrizi requires diligence, but close monitoring and management improves outcomes.

The Takeaway

Skyrizi can effectively control plaque psoriasis symptoms when dispensed and administered properly. Partnering with a specialty pharmacy streamlines the process and provides clinical support. With their help navigating insurance coverage, costs, delivery, dosing and more, Skyrizi can greatly reduce psoriasis flares and severity.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.