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Eculizumab ( eck-uh-LIH-zoo-mab ) (Soliris®) What is this medication used for?
Eculizumab, a monoclonal antibody, blocks the activity of the part of the immune system that may damage blood cells in people with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) and that causes clots to form in people with atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS).
What does it look like? • Liquid How is it given?
Special instructions: • Call a healthcare provider immediately if any of the following symptoms develop: headache and fever with nausea and vomiting, high fever, body aches, flu symptoms, confusion, increased sensitivity to light, or stiffness in neck or back. • The meningococcal vaccine will be given 2 weeks before starting therapy if the patient isn’t already vaccinated. Other vaccines may be required prior to starting therapy. Your healthcare provider will check the patient’s immunization status. • People with PNH will need to be monitored for signs of increased breakdown of red blood cells for up to 8 weeks after stopping this medicine. • People with aHUS need to be monitored for signs of increased blood clotting for 12 weeks after stopping this medicine. • This medicine should be stored at room temperature. Once reconstituted, it can be stored for up to 24 hours. The medicine should be infused over 2 hours or less. • In utero exposure may cause fetal harm.
• Into the vein (IV) or venous access device What are the common side effects? • High blood pressure • Diarrhea, constipation, or stomach belly pain • Nausea or vomiting • Low red blood cell counts (anemia) • Backache • Muscle or joint pain or spasms • Headache • Trouble sleeping (insomnia) • Common cold symptoms such as a stuffy nose or sore throat • Fever • Flu-like symptoms
What are rare but serious side effects? • Low white blood cell counts (neutropenia)
• Allergic reactions, such as rash, hives, itching, swelling, red or blistered skin, wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the mouth, face, and lips • Swelling of arms, legs, hands, or feet (peripheral edema) • Increased vulnerability to certain infections, such as meningococcal disease
Notes from Your Healthcare Team
Not all of the possible side effects of this medicine and precautions related to taking it are covered in this information sheet. For a complete list of side effects and precautions, ask your healthcare professional (doctor, nurse, pharmacist) for a manufacturer’s package insert or another reference.
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