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Sarilumab

Pronounced

"sar-IL-ue-mab"

Common brand names:

Kevzara

Uses

This medication is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (pJIA), or polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR). Sarilumab belongs to a class of drugs known as monoclonal antibodies. It helps reduce pain and swelling by blocking Interleukin-6, a substance made by the body that causes swelling (inflammation).

Other Uses

This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.

This medication may also be used for COVID-19, but is only effective in hospitalized patients who need supplemental oxygen or a mechanical ventilator to breathe.

How to Use This Medication

Read the Medication Guide and Instructions for Use provided by your pharmacist before you start using sarilumab and each time you get a refill. Ask your health care professional how to prepare and use this medication. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Inject this medication under the skin as directed by your doctor, usually once every 2 weeks. The injection is given in the thigh, abdomen, or upper arm. The dosage is based on your medical condition, labs, and response to treatment.

Depending on your product, take the medication out of the refrigerator 30 or 60 minutes before you inject it to allow it to reach room temperature. Do not warm up this medication any other way (for example, do not heat it in the microwave or place it in hot water). Before using, check this product for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Before injecting each dose, clean the skin you are going to inject into (the injection site) with rubbing alcohol. Change the injection site each time to lessen injury under the skin. Do not inject into skin that is tender, damaged, or has bruises or scars. To lessen bruising, do not rub the injection site after a shot. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, mark the days you need to inject the medication on a calendar.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse.

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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 2025.