If you've landed here because you're curious (or a little nervous) about Omvoh dosage, take a deep breathyou're in the right place. I'll walk you through what Omvoh is, who it's for, exactly how dosing works for ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, and the practical stuff no one tells youlike where injections go, how long to warm the pen, and what to do if life gets in the way and you miss a dose.
Here's the quick, friendly answer up front: The typical Omvoh dosage for ulcerative colitis is 300 mg by IV infusion at Weeks 0, 4, and 8, then 200 mg by subcutaneous (under the skin) injection every 4 weeks starting Week 12. For Crohn's disease, it's 900 mg IV at Weeks 0, 4, and 8, then 300 mg SC every 4 weeks from Week 12. Your doctor's plan always comes firstconsider this your companion guide to help it all feel more doable.
Let's also talk balance. Omvoh can be a powerful ally for moderate to severe UC or CD, but there are important safety steps: TB screening, baseline liver tests, vaccine timing, and watching for infections. Think of it like a road trip with seatbelts and checkpointsyou'll get where you're going more smoothly when you follow the route.
What is Omvoh
Omvoh (mirikizumab) is a prescription biologic medicine designed to help calm inflammation in your gut by blocking a specific signaling protein called interleukin-23 (IL23). If your ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease keeps flaring despite other treatmentsor you're looking for a targeted biologic with a clear induction-to-maintenance planyour gastroenterologist may suggest Omvoh.
How Omvoh works (IL23 inhibitor) and when doctors consider it
Imagine inflammation as gossip racing through a neighborhood. IL23 is one of the loudest megaphones keeping that gossip going. Omvoh lowers the volume by blocking IL23, helping reduce gut inflammation and related symptoms like urgency, bleeding, pain, and fatigue. Doctors tend to consider it for moderate to severe disease, especially if you haven't responded well to steroids, aminosalicylates, or other biologics.
Indications at a glance: ulcerative colitis vs Crohn's disease
Omvoh is approved for adults with moderate to severe active ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. The goals? Induce remission with IV infusions at the start and then maintain control with injections you can give at home.
Quick glossary: induction vs maintenance; IV vs SC; prefilled pen vs syringe
- Induction: The "kickstart" phaseIV infusions to get inflammation under control.
- Maintenance: The "stay steady" phaseregular injections to keep symptoms in check.
- IV (intravenous): Given through a vein at a clinic or infusion center.
- SC (subcutaneous): An under-the-skin injection, typically at home.
- Prefilled pen vs syringe: Both deliver the same medication; pens are push-button, syringes are manual. Your care team can help you choose.
Omvoh dosage
Here's the heart of ityour Omvoh dosage depends on your condition. I've kept this simple and number-forward so you can screenshot or jot it down.
Omvoh dosage for ulcerative colitis (UC)
Induction: 300 mg IV infusion at Weeks 0, 4, and 8 (30 minutes each)
You'll receive three infusions, each at least 30 minutes. These happen in a clinic or infusion center. Many people bring headphones, a book, or a friend to pass the time.
Maintenance: 200 mg SC at Week 12 and every 4 weeks (two 100 mg injections back-to-back)
Starting at Week 12, you'll give two 100 mg injections in one sitting, every 4 weeks. Think of it as a settwo quick shots, then you're done until next month.
Omvoh dosage for Crohn's disease (CD)
Induction: 900 mg IV infusion at Weeks 0, 4, and 8 (90 minutes each)
These infusions are longerat least 90 minutesbecause the induction dose is higher. Plan ahead with a comfy sweater and something to watch.
Maintenance: 300 mg SC at Week 12 and every 4 weeks (one 100 mg + one 200 mg injection)
From Week 12 onward, you'll do two injections in one session: one 100 mg and one 200 mg. Still just once every 4 weeks.
Missed dose: what to do
Inject as soon as possible; then resume every 4 weeks
If you forget a maintenance dose, take it as soon as you remember. After that, resume your every-4-weeks schedule. If it's been a while or you're unsure, message your care teamthey'll help you reset the calendar.
Forms and strengths
Knowing your Omvoh forms and strengths makes ordering refills and organizing your fridge way easier.
IV infusion form (for induction)
300 mg/15 mL single-dose vial (20 mg/mL)
This is handled by your infusion centeryou won't be prepping vials yourself during induction.
Subcutaneous forms (for maintenance)
100 mg/mL single-dose prefilled pen or syringe
Used in UC maintenance (two 100 mg injections) and paired with the 200 mg for CD.
200 mg/2 mL single-dose prefilled pen or syringe
Commonly used in CD maintenance along with a 100 mg device on the same day.
Cartons supplied as full maintenance doses (UC: two 100 mg; CD: one 100 mg + one 200 mg)
Pharmacies often ship your maintenance dose as a ready-to-go set, so you're never piecing it together.
How to use
Let's talk through the practical stepsbecause the "how" matters just as much as the "how much."
Getting induction infusions
Where infusions happen, how long they take, and what to expect
Infusions happen in a clinic or infusion center. UC infusions are typically at least 30 minutes; CD infusions are at least 90 minutes. Expect vitals checks, an IV line, and some monitoring during and after. A tip from patients: bring snacks, water, and a show you've been meaning to binge. You may feel tired afterwardplan a low-key rest of the day.
Self-injecting Omvoh for maintenance
Training, storage (fridge, no freezing, room temp window), warming time (30 min UC; 45 min CD)
Your first injection is usually taught by a nurse. Store all devices in the refrigerator (3646F), protected from light. Never freeze. When it's time to inject, let the device(s) sit at room temperatureabout 30 minutes for UC (since you're using two 100 mg devices) and about 45 minutes for CD (one 100 mg plus one 200 mg). Do not microwave or run under hot waterslow and steady wins here.
Injection sites and rotation (abdomen, thigh, back of upper arm)
Pick the abdomen (away from the belly button), front of the thighs, or back of the upper arm (if someone helps). Rotate sites with each injection to reduce soreness. Imagine a clock face on your belly and pick a new "hour" each month.
Visual checks: solution should be clear to slightly yellow/brown, no particles
Look through the window. If the liquid looks cloudy, has chunks, or the device is damaged, don't use it. Call the pharmacy for a replacement.
Do not reuse pens/syringes; discard safely
Every device is single-use. After injecting, toss it into an FDA-cleared sharps container. If you don't have one, a thick, puncture-resistant household container with a tight lid can work temporarilyask your pharmacy about local disposal rules.
Safety checks
Safety isn't meant to scare youit's there to protect you so you can get the benefits of treatment with fewer surprises.
Before your first Omvoh dose
TB screening; baseline liver enzymes and bilirubin; complete age-appropriate vaccines; avoid live vaccines during treatment
Plan for a TB test and baseline liver labs. Get up to date on vaccines before starting if possibleespecially shingles (if eligible), flu, and COVID19. Live vaccines should be avoided while on Omvoh; your clinician will guide timing.
While on Omvoh: what to watch
Infections: when to call your doctor (fever, cough, sores, shingles)
Because Omvoh modulates your immune system, you might be a bit more prone to infections. Call your care team if you have persistent fever, worsening cough, painful skin rash (especially blistering or shingles), mouth sores, or burning with urination. Early treatment keeps small problems small.
Rare hypersensitivity/infusion reactions: signs and urgent steps
Seek urgent help for hives, swelling of the face or throat, trouble breathing, dizziness, or chest tightness. Infusion centers monitor you for reactions at the start; at home, you're the VIPif something feels off, act fast.
Liver safety: symptoms to flag (itching, dark urine, jaundice); when labs are rechecked
Tell your clinician right away if you notice yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, light-colored stools, severe fatigue, or widespread itching. They may repeat liver tests and adjust your plan if needed.
Who should not take Omvoh
History of serious hypersensitivity to mirikizumab or excipients
If you've had a serious allergic reaction to Omvoh or any of its ingredients, your clinician will recommend other options.
Compare options
Where does Omvoh fit among other ulcerative colitis treatment and Crohn's disease therapies? Think of the landscape like a toolkit: antiTNFs (like adalimumab), antiintegrins, antiIL12/23 or IL23 inhibitors, JAK inhibitors, and S1P modulators. Omvoh's niche is targeted IL23 inhibition with a clear IV induction and SC maintenance rhythm. Some people love the predictability of monthly dosing. Others prefer fully self-injectable options without infusions. It's about your lifestyle, your disease history, and your goals.
Pros and cons to consider
- Pros: Targeted mechanism; scheduled monthly maintenance; home injections after induction; cartons often packaged as full doses.
- Cons: Requires three IV inductions; no live vaccines during therapy; infection vigilance; potential liver monitoring.
Cost, access, and administration considerations to discuss with your clinician
Insurance coverage, copay assistance, and infusion logistics vary. If you're worried about cost or scheduling, say soyour team can help with prior authorizations, patient support programs, or finding an infusion center that works for you. According to the manufacturer's HCP dosing and administration guidance and standard references you and your clinician may review together (see resources like the prescribing information or an independent drug reference), the dosing outlined here reflects labeled recommendations.
Real-world tips
Here's the human sidethe stuff that makes the daily routine smoother.
What patients often say helps
Setting reminders for every-4-week injections
Use your phone calendar with a friendly name (I've seen "Gut-hero day"). Set two alerts: one to move the pen from fridge to counter, and another for injection time.
Rotating sites to reduce soreness; using a chilled pack after injection if needed
A simple rotation chart stuck to the fridge helps. If an area feels tender, give it a break next month. A cool pack for 510 minutes after injecting can ease sting and swellingavoid placing ice directly on skin.
Clinician pearls
Planning vaccines before start; coordinating lab schedules; managing intercurrent infections
Ask your clinician to map out a "start checklist": TB test done, vaccines updated, baseline labs on calendar, first two maintenance shipments timed. If you get sick (even a stubborn cold), message your team about whether to delay your next doseit's always better to ask.
Storage rules
Good storage equals reliable dosingsimple as that.
Home storage rules
Keep refrigerated 3646F; protect from light; do not shake or freeze
Store in the original carton in the fridge door or a stable shelf. If it accidentally freezes, don't use it.
Room temperature allowance: up to 2 weeks (do not return to fridge)
If needed for travel or convenience, Omvoh can stay at room temperature for up to 14 days. Once it's out, keep it outdon't cycle back and forth.
Traveling with Omvoh
Packing, temperature control, documentation, time-zone dosing
Use an insulated travel case with cold packs (not directly touching the device). Keep it with you, not in checked luggage. Carry a copy of your prescription and a note from your clinician if you're flying. For time zones, aim for "about every 4 weeks" in local timeif the window gets confusing, your clinic can help you pick a reasonable on-the-road injection day.
When to call
Save this section for quick referenceideally in your phone notes.
Signs of possible serious infection
High fever, chills, shortness of breath, persistent cough, severe sore throat, painful rash or blisters, or unusual fatiguecall your clinician promptly.
Signs of hypersensitivity or liver problems
Hives, facial or throat swelling, trouble breathing, dizzinessseek emergency care. Also report yellowing skin or eyes, dark urine, pale stools, severe itching, or abdominal pain to your clinician right away.
Worsening GI symptoms despite Omvoh
More bleeding, more urgency, increasing pain, or nighttime symptomsdon't tough it out. You deserve relief, and early adjustments can help keep you on track.
Can I share a quick story? A reader once told me the scariest part was the first self-injection. She set up a little "success station" on her kitchen tableclean surface, alcohol swabs, a timer, a glass of water, and a favorite playlist. By her third month, she said the ritual felt like "checking the oil on my carsimple, necessary, and not a big deal." That mindset shift made all the difference.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, that's okay. New routines take practice. Your Omvoh dosage plan is clearinduction by IV, then monthly injectionsand you've got a team behind you. Want a printable checklist or a personalized dosing calendar that matches your start date? Say the word, tell me UC or CD, and I'll map it out step by step.
What questions are still on your mind? Curious about injection technique, what to pack for infusion day, or how to handle vacation timing? Share your thoughts. Your experience matters, and your voice might be exactly what another reader needs to hear.
Here's to calmer days ahead and a plan that feels doableone dose at a time.
FAQs
What is the induction dosing schedule for Omvoh in ulcerative colitis?
For ulcerative colitis, the induction phase is 300 mg given by IV infusion at weeks 0, 4, and 8 (each infusion lasts at least 30 minutes).
How is Omvoh maintained after the induction phase for Crohn’s disease?
Maintenance begins at week 12 with a sub‑cutaneous injection of 300 mg total each month (one 100 mg and one 200 mg dose administered on the same day).
Can I store my Omvoh prefilled pens at room temperature?
Yes. After refrigeration, the pens may stay at room temperature (36‑46 °F) for up to 14 days. Do not refreeze or return them to the fridge once they’ve been at room temperature.
What should I do if I miss a scheduled Omvoh injection?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, then continue with your regular every‑4‑week schedule. If you’re unsure, contact your healthcare provider for guidance.
What safety checks are required before starting Omvoh therapy?
Before the first dose you need TB screening, baseline liver function tests, and up‑to‑date age‑appropriate vaccines (live vaccines should be avoided while on treatment).
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.
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