Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: ALEFACEPT - INTRAMUSCULAR (al-EF-ah-sept)
BRAND NAME(S): Amevive
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert
USES: This medication is used to treat moderate to severe chronic plaque psoriasis.
HOW TO USE: Use this medication exactly as prescribed. This drug is given by intramuscular injection (IM) by a healthcare professional once weekly. Follow all the preparation and administration instructions found in the product package. If you have questions about any of the information, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Rotate injection sites. New injections should be given at least one inch apart from an old site. Do not inject into areas of the skin that are sore, bruised, red or hard. To prevent the medication from foaming, do not shake the bottle when preparing the dose. Do not use if the liquid contains particles or appears to be discolored or cloudy. Make sure needles and any medical supplies are stored safely and disposed of properly. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to take it on the same day each week.
SIDE EFFECTS: Pain, swelling, or bleeding at the injection site may occur. Dizziness, throat inflammation, increased cough, nausea, itching, muscle pain, or chills may also occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if this highly unlikely but very serious side effect occurs: chest pain. Though very unlikely, you may have a slightly increased risk of developing cancer due to this medication. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop symptoms such as: unusual lumps, swollen glands, skin lesions/spots that are new or change appearance. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop signs of infection while using this drug, such as: fever, chills, persistent sore throat, trouble breathing, painful or frequent urination, unusual vaginal discharge, white patches in the mouth (oral thrush). An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Psoriasis - Read about psoriasis symptoms, causes, treatment information, medication and types: vulgaris, guttate, inverse and pustular. Red dry flakes, skin scales and plaques of raised skin are common symptoms.
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