Reslizumab

Reslizumab

Reslizumab

What is Reslizumab?

Reslizumab affects your immune system and lowers the levels of a certain type of white blood cell that may contribute to asthma symptoms.

Reslizumab may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Reslizumab side effects

If necessary, get emergency medical helpSigns of an allergic reaction:hives; difficult breathing; Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Some side effects may occur during or shortly after the injection. Tell your provider if you experience dizziness, nausea, lightheadedness, itching, shortness of breath, or swelling in your face.

Common side effects of reslizumab may include:

• sore throat; or

• Muscle pain.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Some people have had allergic reactions to reslizumabduring or shortly after the injection. Tell your provider if you feel nauseated, dizzy, or itchy, or have facial swelling or difficulty breathing.

Before you take this medicine

You should not be treated with reslizumab if you are allergic to it.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had a parasitic infection (e.g. roundworms or tapeworms).

Using reslizumab may increase your risk of cancer. Ask your doctor about this risk.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant. It is not known whether reslizumab will harm an unborn baby. However, uncontrolled asthma during pregnancy can lead to premature birth, low birth weight of the baby, or complications such as eclampsia (dangerous high blood pressure that can lead to medical problems in both mother and baby). The benefits of asthma treatment may outweigh the risks to the baby.

Breastfeeding may not be safe while using reslizumab. Ask your doctor about any risks.

How is reslizumab administered?

Before you start treatment with reslizumab, your doctor may do tests to measure your white blood cells.

Reslizumab is usually given as an infusion into a vein every 4 weeks. A doctor will give you this injection.

This medicine must be given slowly and the infusion may take 20 to 50 minutes.

After each injection, you will be closely monitored for a short time to make sure you do not have an allergic reaction.

If you are also taking a steroid medication, you should not suddenly stop using it. Follow your doctor's instructions for reducing the dose.

Reslizumab is not an emergency medication for asthma attacks.See a doctor if your breathing problems get worse quickly or if you think your asthma medication isn't working as well.

Use all asthma medications as directed. Your dosage needs may change due to surgery, illness, stress, or a recent asthma attack. Do not change your dose or dosing schedule without your doctor's advice. Tell your doctor if any of your medicines no longer seem to be working.

Reslizumab dosage information

Usual Adult Dose for Asthma:

3 mg/kg i.v. over 20 to 50 minutes every 4 weeks

Comments:
– Do not administer as an intravenous push or bolus.
-The infusion should be stopped immediately if the patient experiences a severe systemic reaction, including anaphylaxis.

Use: For adjunctive maintenance therapy of patients with severe asthma with an eosinophilic phenotype

What happens if I miss a dose?

Call your doctor for instructions if you miss an appointment for your reslizumab injection.

What happens if I overdose?

Because reslizumab is administered by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely.

What should I avoid during treatment with reslizumab?

Follow your doctor's instructions regarding any food, drink, or activity restrictions.

What other drugs affect reslizumab?

Other medications may affect reslizumab, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all medications you are currently taking and any medications you are taking or stopping.

More information

Remember to keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medicine only for the prescribed indication.