EMPAVELI contains the active ingredient pegcetacoplan, which is a complement inhibitor. It is available as a sterile, clear injection intended for subcutaneous use, with each vial holding a 20 mL single-dose solution. The solution includes key inactive ingredients such as sorbitol, glacial acetic acid, sodium acetate trihydrate, and water for injection.
How should I use this medication?
This medication is injected under the skin. You will be taught how to prepare and give it. Take it as directed on the prescription. Keep taking it unless your care team tells you to stop.
It is important that you put your used needles, syringes, tubing, and infusion set or on-body injector in a special sharps container. Do not put them in a trash can. If you do not have a sharps container, call your pharmacist or care team to get one.
A special MedGuide will be given to you by the pharmacist with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.
This medication comes with INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE. Ask your pharmacist for directions on how to use this medication. Read the information carefully. Talk to your pharmacist or care team if you have questions.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While it may be given to children as young as 12 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
Where should I keep my medication?
Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Store this medication in the refrigerator. Keep it in the original carton until you are ready to take it. Remove the dose from the carton about 30 minutes before it is time for you to take it. Protect from light. Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.
To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:
NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
What may interact with this medication?
Interactions are not expected.
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medication?
Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.
You may need blood work done while you are taking this medication.
This medication may increase your risk of getting an infection. Call your care team for advice if you get a fever, chills, sore throat, or other symptoms of a cold or flu. Do not treat yourself. Try to avoid being around people who are sick.
Talk to your care team about your vaccination history. To lower your risk of infection, you may need certain vaccines before you start this medication.
Carry the Patient Wallet Card with you at all times. Show it to all members of your care team. It describes the signs and symptoms of severe side effects you may have while taking this medication.
Talk to your care team if you may be pregnant. This medication can cause serious fetal side effects if taken during pregnancy. You will need a negative pregnancy test before starting this medication. Contraception is recommended while taking this medication and for 40 days after the last dose. Your care team can help you find the option that works for you.
What are the most serious risks of this medication?
This medicine can lower your body’s ability to fight infections. There is an increased risk for serious infections like meningitis and pneumonia. These infections may be deadly without immediate medical treatment. To help reduce the risk of infections, there are certain vaccines you should get before starting this medicine. Talk to your health care provider. Report any signs of infection promptly. You must seek immediate medical care for any of the following: headache with nausea or vomiting; headache and a fever; headache with a stiff neck or stiff back; fever alone; fever and a rash; confusion; muscle aches with flu-like symptoms; eyes sensitive to light.
Source: This information is sourced from Elsevier Inc.
The reviews, ratings, comments, and opinions expressed on this platform are solely those of the individual medical professionals who posted them and do not reflect the views or positions of Sermo, Inc. Sermo does not endorse, verify, or validate the content of individual reviews. The information provided is user-generated and reflects personal clinical experiences, which may not be complete, accurate, or applicable to your specific health needs. It is not intended as medical advice.
Prescription medications affect individuals differently, and what works for one person may not work for another. Always consult your doctor, pharmacist, or other qualified healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed applies to your personal circumstances. Only a licensed healthcare provider can advise you on what is safe and effective for you.
Keep all medications out of the reach of children, never share your medicine with others, and use each medication only as prescribed. Your reliance on any information provided on this platform is at your own risk.
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