Can Skyrizi Cause Bloating, Loss of Appetite, and Constipation?
Skyrizi (risankizumab) does not commonly cause bloating, loss of appetite, or constipation based on FDA-approved labeling, though loss of appetite has been reported as a symptom of potential liver problems in patients with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. 1
FDA-Documented Gastrointestinal Side Effects
The FDA label for Skyrizi lists specific gastrointestinal side effects that vary by indication:
For Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis patients:
- Stomach (abdominal) pain is listed as a common side effect 1
- Nausea and vomiting are documented as symptoms of potential liver problems, not routine side effects 1
- Loss of appetite is specifically mentioned as a warning sign of liver dysfunction requiring immediate medical attention 1
For plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis patients:
- The most common side effects include upper respiratory infections, headache, fatigue, and injection site reactions 1
- Notably, bloating, loss of appetite, and constipation are NOT listed among the common side effects for these indications 1
Critical Warning: Loss of Appetite as a Red Flag
If you experience loss of appetite while on Skyrizi, contact your healthcare provider immediately, as this may indicate liver problems. 1 The FDA label specifically warns that liver problems may develop, particularly in Crohn's disease patients receiving intravenous infusions, with one documented case requiring hospitalization. 1
Additional warning signs requiring immediate medical attention include:
- Unexplained rash
- Nausea or vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Fatigue
- Yellowing of skin/eyes (jaundice)
- Dark urine 1
Context: Gastrointestinal Symptoms in General
While bloating and constipation are not documented Skyrizi side effects, gastrointestinal symptoms are among the most common drug side effects in general medical practice. 2 However, given the high frequency of these symptoms in the general population, it can be difficult to determine whether they are drug-induced or spontaneously occurring. 2
Clinical Recommendation
If you are experiencing bloating, loss of appetite, or constipation while taking Skyrizi:
- Report loss of appetite immediately to your healthcare provider, as this warrants liver function testing 1
- For bloating and constipation without other warning signs, consider alternative causes, as these are not established Skyrizi side effects 1
- Do not discontinue Skyrizi without consulting your healthcare provider 1