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This medication is used to treat adults with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.This drug is a man-made protein (monoclonal antibody) that decreases the actions of certain immune system cells (T lymphocytes). This action decreases the skin changes that are seen with plaque psoriasis.
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| Overview | Photos | How
To Use | Side
Effects | Precautions | Missed
Dose | Drug
Interactions | |
RAPTIVA SubQ
Uses
This medication is used to treat adults with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.This drug is a man-made protein (monoclonal antibody) that decreases the actions of certain immune system cells (T lymphocytes). This action decreases the skin changes that are seen with plaque psoriasis.
Notes
- Do not share this medication with others.Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., platelet counts, alkaline phosphatase, white blood cell counts) should be performed periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects.
- Consult your doctor for more details.
Storage
- Refrigerate between 36 and 46 degrees F (2-8 degrees C) away from light.
- Do not freeze.
- This medication must be used immediately after mixing.
- The mixed drug may be stored up to 8 hours at room temperature.
- If not used within this time, discard the medicine and mix a brand new dose.
- Keep all medicines away from children and pets.
Overdose
- Symptoms of overdose may include severe vomiting.
How
To Use - Read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using efalizumab and each time you get a refill.
- If you have any questions regarding the information, consult your doctor or pharmacist.Give this medication by injecting under the skin (subcutaneously-SC) of the thigh, abdomen, buttock, or upper arm, once a week; or use as directed by your doctor.Your dose of efalizumab is based on your weight.
- Tell your doctor if your weight changes.
- Do not change your dose or stop taking this medication without talking to your doctor.Follow all instructions for preparing this drug for injection.
- Gently swirl the vial to mix the drug.
- Do not shake.
- If you have questions regarding the use of this medication, consult your pharmacist.Before injecting each dose, clean the injection site with rubbing alcohol.
- It is important to change the location of the injection site weekly.Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration.
- If either is present, do not use the liquid.Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it.
- Remember to use it on the same day each week.It may take up to four weeks before the full benefits of this drug take effect.
- If your condition does not improve or worsens, contact your doctor.Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely.
Side
Effects - Headache, chills, fever, nausea, vomiting, or muscle aches may occur during the first weeks, but then subside as your body adjusts to this medication.
- Pain, acne, backache, weakness, or flu-like symptoms may occur.
- If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects.
- Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: joint pain or swelling, swelling of hands or feet.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: unusual bleeding or bruising, unusual lumps, swollen glands, changes in skin appearance other than psoriasis affected areas, yellowing of eyes/skin, dark urine, dizziness upon standing.Efalizumab decreases immune system function (immunosuppression), which can result in serious infections (e.g., tuberculosis), or a worsening of of an existing infection.
- Tell your doctor immediately if you develop signs of infection while using this drug such as: persistent fever/sore throat/cough, difficulty breathing.A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs.
- Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing.If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
- Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: current infections, blood problems (e.g., thrombocytopenia), history of cancer, immune system problems, currently on phototherapy, any allergies.This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy.
- Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.Based on information for related drugs, this medication may pass into breast milk.
- Therefore, breast-feeding while using this medication is not recommended.
Missed
Dose - If you miss a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately to establish a new dosing schedule.
- Do not double the dose to catch up.
Drug
Interactions - Your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them.
- Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with them first.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use, especially of: live bacterial vaccines, drugs that suppress immune system (e.g., prednisone, cyclosporine).This product can affect the results of certain lab tests.
- Make sure laboratory personnel and your doctors know you use this drug.
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CONDITIONS
OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute
for, the expertise and judgement of healthcare professionals. The information
is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions
or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular
drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional
should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or
discontinuing any course of treatment. |
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