Pronounced: (nay-tal-IZ-oo-mab)
TYSABRI IV Warning
Table of Contents
- Uses and How to Use
- Dosage and Storage
- >>Precautions and Side Effects
- Drug Interactions
- Drug Images
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 multiple sclerosis (MS) treatments (such as interferon) or immunosuppressants (such as azathioprine). (See also Side Effects and Drug Interactions sections.) 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 available only to patients enrolled in the TOUCH Prescribing Program. There are two different TOUCH prescribing programs: MS TOUCH for patients with multiple sclerosis, and CD TOUCH for patients with Crohn's disease. Only doctors, infusion centers, and pharmacies enrolled in these programs 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.
TYSABRI IV Side Effects
Headache, joint pain, redness/irritation at the injection site, swelling hands/feet/ankles, or changes in menstrual cycle may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor immediately if you have any side effects while this drug is being given or shortly after your treatment is finished. Examples of these side effects (infusion reaction) may include chills, fever, flushing, nausea, dizziness, tiredness, and chest pain.
Previous Section
