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Mepolizumab

Generic name: Mepolizumab [MEP oh-LIZ ue-mab]
Dosage forms: subcutaneous powder for injection (100 mg), subcutaneous solution (100 mg/mL)
Drug class: interleukin inhibitors

What is Mepolizumab?

Mepolizumab is a monoclonal antibody that reduces levels of eosinophils, a white blood cell type. A high eosinophil count can cause certain diseases. Mepolizumab can be used in children and adults over 12 years of age to reduce the symptoms or flare-ups associated with high levels of eosinophils (Hypereosinophilic Syndrome). Mepolizumab can also be used by adults in order to control the symptoms of an autoimmune disease called eosinophilic polyangiitis. Mepolizumab can also be used in combination with other medications to control severe asthma, both for adults and children older than 6 years. Mepolizumab does not act as a quick-relief medicine for asthma attacks. Mepolizumab can be used in other ways not mentioned in the medication guide.

Side effects of Mepolizumab

If you experience any of the following: hives, rash, wheezing, chest tightness, difficulty breathing, feeling as if you may pass out, or swelling on your lips, face, tongue, or throat,

Mepolizumab may cause serious side effects. You should call your doctor immediately if:

  • Unusual pain or fatigue
  • You may feel a burning sensation or tingling in any part of your body.
  • A rash that is red and blistering.

Mepolizumab can cause the following side effects:

  • Headache;
  • Feeling tired
  • Back pain
  • Itching, pain, swelling, or redness where the medication was injected

There may be other side effects.Call your doctor if experiencing symptoms. Report all side effects by calling the FDA's toll free number at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Please read all instructions listed on your medication package carefully, inform your doctors of your allergies and medical conditions, as well as which medicines you are currently using.

Before you take this drug

If you have an allergy to mepolizumab, do not take it. Mepolizumab cannot be used by children younger than six years of age. Mepolizumab is not approved for use in children younger than 6 years of age.

Tell your doctor if:

  • You also take steroid medications for asthma.
  • You have had a previous history of a parasite being infected, such as tapeworms and roundworms.
  • You have had a previous history of Herpes Zoster, also known as Shingles.

Before you begin using mepolizumab, your doctor may give you a vaccine against zoster. Do not abruptly stop taking steroid medications, whether they are inhaled or oral.Follow your doctor's recommendations regarding dosage reduction. Inform your doctor that you're pregnant. Your name could be added to a registry for tracking the effects of the mepolizumab treatment on the child. You may be unable to breastfeed if you are using mepolizumab. You should consult your doctor if you are concerned about any risks.

How to take Mepolizumab?

You may be tested by your doctor to ensure that you are not suffering from any conditions that would make it unsafe for you to use mepolizumab. Read and follow all instructions or guides included with your medication. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Mepolizumab does not work as a rescue medication for asthma attacks. Only use fast-acting, inhaled medicine to treat an attack. If your breathing problem gets worse or you suspect that your asthma medication is not working, seek medical help. Your healthcare professional should instruct you in how to take this medication appropriately, following all directions on its prescription label.  Before administering Mepolizumab, dilute it with liquid. Please read and heed all directions provided with the medication; if there are any difficulties understanding them please reach out to either your pharmacist or physician immediately for clarification.

Do not shake or stir the mixture unless ready to administer an injection. If its color changes or contains particles, do not use it and notify your pharmacist as soon as possible. For new medication please call them directly for advice and availability. Keep the vial at room temperature. Do not let the bottle freeze. In the refrigerator, store the prefilled injector and autoinjector inside the original packaging. The medicine should not be frozen or shaken. You must use your syringe or autoinjector within 8 hours after removing medicine from its carton. The prefilled autoinjector or syringe can be stored in an unopened container at room temperature for up to seven days. If you have not kept a syringe in the fridge for 7 days, throw it away. Every vial, syringe prefilled, or autoinjector can only be used once. After one time, throw it out, even if the medicine is still inside. Only use a needle or syringe once, and place it in the "sharps container" to prevent punctures. Be sure to follow local or state laws on how you should dispose of the container. It should be kept out of the reach of pets and children.

What happens if I miss the dose?

If you are almost due for the next dose, skip the dose that was missed. Never take two doses of the same medicine at once.

What happens if I overdose?

Contact the Poison Control Helpline immediately if you think someone may have taken poison and requires assistance, or seek immediate medical attention. For immediate poison assistance and/or first aid help call 1-800-222-1222 and seek assistance immediately from an appropriate healthcare provider.

What should be avoided?

If your doctor prescribes any restrictions on foods, drinks, or activities, follow their instructions.

Interaction with other drug

Mepolizumab can be affected by other drugs, such as prescription medicines, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal products.Inform your physician of all of the medicines you are currently taking as well as those you discontinue or start to use, along with any changes.