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Alemtuzumab

This form:

Pronounced

"AL-em-TOOZ-oo-mab"

Common brand names:

Lemtrada

Uses

Alemtuzumab is used to treat multiple sclerosis (MS). It is not a cure for MS but it is thought to help by preventing immune system cells (lymphocytes) from attacking the nerves in your brain and spinal cord. It helps decrease the number of relapses and may prevent or delay disability.

How to Use This Medication

Read the Medication Guide, Patient Safety Information Card, and, if available, the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using alemtuzumab and each time you receive treatment with this drug. Carry the Patient Safety Information Card with you at all times. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

This medication is given by injection into a vein over at least 4 hours by a health care professional. It should be given over 2 treatment courses. The first treatment course is usually given daily for 5 days while the second treatment course is usually given daily for 3 days. The treatment courses should be separated by 12 months. Additional treatment courses of 3 days may be given if needed, but should be separated by at least 12 months from the previous treatment.

Before you receive this medication, your doctor will direct you to take other medications (such as acetaminophen, diphenhydramine, corticosteroids, antiviral medication) to help prevent side effects and infection. Use these additional medications exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

RxAnswers™ is a copyrighted combined product from TraceGains and First DataBank, Inc.

Drug information is selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First DataBank, Inc. This is a summary and does not contain all possible information about this product. For complete information about this product or your specific health needs, ask your healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your healthcare professional if you have any questions about this product or your medical condition. This information is not intended as individual medical advice and does not substitute for the knowledge and judgment of your healthcare professional. This information does not contain any assurances that this product is safe, effective or appropriate for you.

This information is intended only for residents of the United States. Products sold under the same brand names in other countries may contain different ingredients.

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Information expires December 2024.