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Medindia » Medication Manual » Canakinumab

Canakinumab

Updated on : October - 2012

Latest prescription information about Canakinumab. 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.

Generic Name : Canakinumab

Pronunciation : KAN-a-KIN-ue-mab

Therapeutic Classification : Monoclonal antibodies

ICD Code : Y43.4

Trade Name(s):
International- Ilaris.

Why it is prescribed (Indications) : This medication is an interleukin-1 beta-blocker, prescribed for auto-inflammatory diseases known as cryopyrin-associated periodic syndrome (CAPS). It decreases interleukin-1 beta's activity.

When it is not to be taken (Contraindications): Contraindicated in patients with severe infection, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis B or C, who are taking tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocker, and known hypersensitivity.

♦ Pregnancy Category :

A B C D X

Category C : Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

Dosage & When it is to be taken : SC- Adult- The recommended dose is 150 mg for patients with body weight greater than 40 kg.
Child- The recommended dose is 15 to 40 kg with an inadequate response; the dose can be increased to 3 mg/kg.

How it should be taken : It comes as a powder for injection (diluted with fluid) to be administered by a healthcare provider under the skin.

Warnings and Precautions :
* Caution should be exercised in patients with history of autoimmune disorder, cancer, hepatitis B or C, tuberculosis, infection, flu-like symptoms, any allergy, who are taking other medications, during pregnancy and breast-feeding.
* It may cause dizziness, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.
* Avoid contact with people who have infections.
* It should not be used in children less than 4 years old.

Side Effects :
Most Common - Diarrhea, influenza, headache and nausea.
♦ Miscellaneous - Increased weight, musculoskeletal pain, fainting, stomach inflammation, nose inflammation, decrease in white blood cells.

Other Precautions :
* Avoid excess dosage.

Storage Conditions :
Store it in refrigerator (2 to 8°C). Do not freeze it.

♦ Safety Labeling Changes Approved By FDA