What supplements can I take with bimekizumab?

Supplements to Take with Bimekizumab

When taking bimekizumab, vitamin C (1000mg) taken in the morning on an empty stomach and zinc (15-30mg daily with food) are the most important supplements to consider, as they may help support immune function while managing potential side effects associated with the medication.

Understanding Bimekizumab and Supplement Needs

Bimekizumab is a monoclonal IgG1 antibody that selectively inhibits both interleukin (IL)-17A and IL-17F, used in the treatment of conditions such as axial spondyloarthritis, psoriasis, and hidradenitis suppurativa 1, 2, 3. When taking this medication, certain supplements may be beneficial to support overall health and potentially mitigate side effects.

Key Supplements to Consider

1. Zinc (15-30mg daily)

   • Take with food to reduce gastrointestinal side effects 4
   • Choose zinc gluconate, zinc histidinate, or zinc orotate formulations for better absorption 4
   • Particularly important as bimekizumab users may experience increased risk of infections, including oral candidiasis 1, 3

2. Vitamin C (1000mg)

   • Take on an empty stomach in the morning for maximum absorption 4
   • Wait 30 minutes before consuming food 4
   • May help support immune function during immunomodulatory therapy

3. B Vitamins

   • Take with breakfast to help with energy utilization throughout the day 4
   • May support overall health during treatment

Timing Considerations

• Morning: Vitamin C (on empty stomach)
• Breakfast: B vitamins, zinc
• Lunch/Dinner: Calcium (if needed, maximum 600mg per dose)

Important Precautions

1. Separate mineral supplements:

   • Take calcium and zinc at least 2 hours apart to avoid absorption competition 4
   • If taking iron supplements, separate from calcium by at least 2 hours 4

2. Monitor for infections:

   • Bimekizumab is associated with increased risk of infections, particularly oral candidiasis and upper respiratory tract infections 1, 3
   • Vitamin C and zinc may help support immune function, but cannot prevent all medication-related side effects

3. Avoid excessive supplementation:

   • Do not exceed 40mg/day of zinc to avoid potential copper deficiency 4
   • Maintain a ratio of 8-15mg zinc for each 1mg copper 4

Special Considerations

• If you experience oral candidiasis (a common side effect of bimekizumab) 3, 5, discuss with your healthcare provider about potentially increasing zinc intake temporarily, as zinc has antimicrobial properties
• If you have any malabsorption conditions, you may need higher doses of certain supplements 4
• Adjust supplementation based on blood test results rather than just intake amounts 4

While these supplements may support overall health while taking bimekizumab, they should not replace any medications or treatments prescribed by your healthcare provider. Always inform your healthcare provider about all supplements you are taking.