Eculizumab
Eculizumab Solution for injection
What is this medicine?
ECULIZUMAB (ek yoo LYE zyoo mab) is a monoclonal antibody. It is used to treat a rare kind of anemia called paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria or PNH. It may help prevent the loss of blood in patients with PNH.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
infection
not received meningococcal vaccine
an unusual or allergic reaction to this eculizumab, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
This medicine is for infusion into a vein. It is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.
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.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
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?
It is important not to miss your dose. Call your doctor or health care professional if you are unable to keep an appointment.
What may interact with this medicine?
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 medicine?
Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medicine. You will need regular blood work. Tell your doctor or healthcare professional if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.
You may have sudden breakdown of your red blood cells after you stop taking this medicine. You will need to be followed by your doctor for 8 weeks or more after this therapy is complete.
This medicine may decrease your body's ability to fight infection. Avoid being around people who are sick.
Carry the Patient Safety Card given to you at all times. Seek medical help if you have any of the symptoms listed on the card.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
back pain
breathing problems
bruising, pinpoint red spots on the skin
confusion
eyes sensitive to light
fast, irregular heartbeat
fever, chills, or any other sign of infection
pain, swelling, warmth in the leg
pain, tingling, numbness in the hands or feet
problems with balance, talking, walking
seizures
stiff neck
unusually weak or tired
vomiting
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
aches and pains
constipation
headache
nausea
runny nose or colds
sore throat
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.
Where should I keep my medicine?
This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.
Updated:  
March 21, 2017
Sources:  
U.S. FDA-approved Package Insert