GENERIC NAME: NATALIZUMAB - INJECTION (nay-tal-IZ-oo-mab)

BRAND NAME(S): Tysabri

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

Warnings

Natalizumab increases your risk of getting a rare but very serious (sometimes fatal) brain infection (progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy-PML). This risk may be higher if you are also using other medications that weaken the immune system, such as other MS treatments (e.g., interferon) or immunosuppressants (e.g., azathioprine). (See also Drug Interaction section.)

Natalizumab is available only to patients enrolled in the TOUCH Prescribing Program. Only physicians, infusion centers, and pharmacies enrolled in this program may prescribe, inject, or provide this medication to patients. Talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of this medication and other treatment choices. If you and your doctor decide that this is the best treatment for you, your doctor can help you enroll in the TOUCH program. Your doctor will monitor you very closely while you are using this medication, usually at least 3 times during the first year and every 6 months from then on.

USES: This medication is used to treat a type of multiple sclerosis that occurs when symptoms appear in cycles of worsening and improvement (relapsing/remitting multiple sclerosis-MS). Because this medication increases the risk of PML, it is usually used alone and only when other treatments have not worked or you are unable to use them. Natalizumab is a protein called a monoclonal antibody. It is thought to work by preventing your immune system from attacking the nerves in your brain and spinal cord. Natalizumab is not a cure for MS. It helps decrease the number of episodes of worsening and may prevent or delay disability.

HOW TO USE: This medicine comes with a Medication Guide. Read it carefully. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist any questions that you may have about this medicine. This medication is mixed in a solution and injected slowly into a vein by a healthcare professional, usually every 4 weeks or as directed by your doctor. It is generally given over 1 hour. It should not be given as a rapid injection. You will be monitored for 1 hour after your treatment is finished to make sure you don't have a serious reaction to the medication. (See also Side Effects section.) Follow all the instructions for proper mixing and dilution with the correct IV fluid. If you have any questions regarding the use of this medication, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Do not shake the drug or mixed solution. Do not mix any other medications with this drug unless directed by your doctor or pharmacist. If the mixed solution has been refrigerated, warm the solution to room temperature before giving. Before using this product, check it visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist if you have any questions. It is important to use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Do not miss any doses without your doctor's approval. Inform your doctor if your condition worsens.

From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com

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