Tysabri

Generic Name: natalizumab (nat ta LIZ yoo mab) Tysabri is a monoclonal antibody that affects the actions of the body's immune system. Tysabri is used in to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis.
What is the most important information I should know about Tysabri?
• Serious, even fatal, infections have been reported to occur during treatment with Tysabri. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop signs of infection such as fever or chills; sore throat, coughing, congestion or other signs of infection; redness, pain, or swelling of a skin wound; or burning or difficult urination.
What is Tysabri?
• Tysabri is an monoclonal antibody that affects the actions of the body's immune system.
• Tysabri is used in the treatment of Multiple Sclerosis.
• Tysabri may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using Tysabri?
• Before using Tysabri, tell your doctor if you have a suppressed immune system or take medications that may suppress the immune system (e.g., medicines to prevent rejection of a transplanted organ, some cancer medicines, others).
• You may not be able to use Tysabri, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring if you have any of the conditions listed above.
• Tysabri is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether Tysabri will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
• It is not known whether Tysabri passes into breast milk. Do not use Tysabri without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I use Tysabri?
• Tysabri should only be administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider.
• Your doctor will determine the correct amount and frequency of treatment with Tysabri. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns regarding the treatment schedule.
• Your doctor will probably want you to have regularly scheduled blood tests and other medical evaluations during treatment with Tysabri to monitor progress and side effects.
• Your healthcare provider will store Tysabri as directed by the manufacturer. If you are storing Tysabri at home, follow the directions provided by your healthcare provider.
What happens if I miss a dose?
• Contact your doctor if you miss a dose of Tysabri.
What happens if I overdose?
• Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
• Symptoms of a Tysabri overdose may include nausea or vomiting.
What should I avoid while using Tysabri?
• Tell your doctor and dentist that you are taking this medication before having surgery and before starting any other medicines.
What are the possible side effects of Tysabri?
• Contact your doctor immediately if you develop signs of infection such as fever or chills; sore throat, coughing, congestion or other signs of infection; redness, pain, or swelling of a skin wound; or burning or difficult urination.
• Contact your doctor immediately if you develop signs of hypersensitivity reactions including can include urticaria (hives), dizziness, fever, rash, shakes, severe itching, nausea, flushing, light headedness, shortness of breath, and chest pain.
• If you experience a serious allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives) to Tysabri, seek emergency medical attention.
• The most common side effects from Tysabri include
· headache;
· fatigue;
· urinary tract infections;
· joint pain;
· stomach ache;
· depression;
· cough (lower respiratory tract infections).
• Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
What other drugs will affect Tysabri?
• Before using Tysabri, tell your doctor if you are taking any other medicines, especially those that may affect the immune system such as:
· medicines to prevent the rejection of a transplanted organ;
· certain cancer medicines;
· medicines for other immune system disorders; or
· vaccines;
· phototherapy.
• You may not be able to use Tysabri, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.
• Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Tysabri. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.