Kevzara (Sarilumab)

Description

Kevzara (Sarilumab) is a biological response modifier. It is typically used to treat moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA) for people for whom other disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs have not provided enough benefit or for whom the effects are not tolerable. RA is an autoimmune disease that causes pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints. It may also have other uses.

Additional information

Kevzara (Sarilumab) is typically injected once every 2 weeks. However, your doctor or pharmacist may have suggested a different schedule that is more appropriate for you. Depending on blood tests and how well you tolerate Kevzara (Sarilumab), your doctor may reduce the dose. Kevzara is used with the guidance and supervision of a doctor. Your doctor or nurse will help you prepare and inject your first dose (or first few doses). Do not attempt to inject Kevzara (Sarilumab) on your own until you completely understand how to inject a dose. The syringe should be allowed to warm to room temperature for 30 minutes prior to injection. Important: Follow the instructions on the label. Do not use more of this product, or more often, than prescribed. If you miss a dose, contact your pharmacist. WARNING: Sarilumab may cause a reduced number of platelets in the blood, which can make it difficult to stop cuts from bleeding. If you notice any signs of bleeding, such as frequent nosebleeds, unexplained bruising, or black and tarry stools, notify your doctor as soon as possible. There have been rare reports of gastrointestinal perforation occurring with the use of sarilumab. A gastrointestinal perforation is a hole that forms through a wall in the digestive tract. This medication can increase the risk of developing an infection, including serious infections such as sepsis (blood infection), pneumonia, and tuberculosis. Use with caution in patients with kidney or liver dysfunction. If you are able to become pregnant, you should use effective birth control while using Kevzara (Sarilumab) and for 3 months after the last dose.
In addition to its desired action, Kevzara (Sarilumab) may cause some side effects, notably:
It may cause cold sores.
It may cause redness at the injection site. It may cause nasal congestion, sore throat, and runny nose.
Contraindication: Hypersensitivity to sarilumab or any component of the formulation. Taking Kevzara (Sarilumab) during pregnancy may be harmful for the baby. Women of childbearing potential should use an effective contraceptive method. Pregnant women should not use this product. If you're planning a pregnancy or becoming pregnant, contact your family doctor.
A treatment with Kevzara (Sarilumab) requires regular monitoring by a doctor. Be sure to see your doctor for all regularly scheduled appointments.Kevzara (Sarilumab)

Warning

Each person may react differently to a treatment. If you think this medication may be causing side effects (including those described here, or others), talk to your doctor or pharmacist. He or she can help you to determine whether or not the medication is the source of the problem.