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Alefacept

Updated on : May - 2012
Latest prescription information about Alefacept. Learn how to pronounce the drug’s name, its indications, dosage, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, its storage instructions and warnings if any when taken during pregnancy. Also listed are the International and Indian trade name(s) of the drug and its price list.
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Generic Name : Alefacept
Pronunciation : ah-LEE-fah-sept
Therapeutic Classification : Immunosuppressants
ICD Code : Y43.4
Trade Name(s): 
International- Amevive.
Why it is prescribed (Indications) : 
This medication is an immunosuppressant, prescribed for moderate to severe psoriasis. It works by stopping the action of certain cells in the body that cause the symptoms of psoriasis.
When it is not to be taken (Contraindications): 
Contraindicated in patients with HIV, and hypersensitivity.

Pregnancy Category :

A B C D X
Category B : Animal reproduction studies have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women OR Animal studies have shown an adverse effect, but adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus in any trimester.

Dosage & When it is to be taken : 
The recommended dose is 15 mg given once weekly as an intramuscular injection.
How it should be taken : 
It comes as a solution to be administered by a healthcare provider into the large muscle.
Warnings and Precautions : 
* Caution should be exercised in patients with history of cancer, recurrent infection, who are taking radiation therapy, any allergy, who are taking other medications, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
* It may cause dizziness, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.
* It should not be used in children.
* Avoid live vaccination while taking this medication.
Side Effects : 
Serious Effects - Malignancy and abnormal decrease in lymphocytes.
Most Common - Dizziness, increased cough, muscle pain, nausea, swelling at the injection site and sore throat.
Miscellaneous - Itching, chills, cough, and accidental injury.
Other Precautions : 
* Avoid excess dosage.
Storage Conditions : 
Store it in refrigerator (2-8°C).
♦ Safety Labeling Changes Approved By FDA


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Reference  

  • Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
  • National Institutes of Health (NIH)
  • PubMed
  • CIMS
  • Indian Pharma Reference Guide 2012
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