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Natalizumab

Pronounced

"nay-tal-IZ-oo-mab"

Common brand names:

Tysabri

Uses

Natalizumab is used to treat multiple sclerosis-MS. It is not a cure for MS, but it is thought to help by preventing your immune system from attacking the nerves in your brain and spinal cord. It helps decrease the number of episodes of worsening symptoms and may prevent or delay disability. Natalizumab is also used to treat a bowel condition called Crohn's disease (CD). It is not a cure for CD, but it is thought to work by preventing your immune system from causing inflammation/swelling within your bowels. Natalizumab is a protein called a monoclonal antibody.

How to Use This Medication

Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using natalizumab and each time you receive another dose. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

This medication is given by a health care professional in an infusion center as directed by your doctor, usually every 4 weeks. This medication is usually given over 1 hour. You will be monitored for 1 hour after your treatment is finished (at least for the first 12 treatments) to make sure you do not have a serious reaction to the medication. (See also Side Effects section.)

It is important to use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. Do not miss any doses without your doctor's approval.

Tell your doctor if your condition worsens. When using this medication for Crohn's disease, if your condition does not improve after 12 weeks of treatment, your doctor will need to switch your treatment plan.

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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 2024.