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Nusinersen - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

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Information about Nusinersen

Generic Name : Nusinersen
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Nusinersen are provided here.

Understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.
You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.


Trade Names/Brand Names of Nusinersen

India :


Spinraza

Why is Nusinersen Prescribed? (Indications)

Nusinersen is a survival motor neuron (SMN-2) directed antisense oligonucleotide which is prescribed for the treatment of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) in children and adults.

Spinal muscular atrophy is a genetic disease which affects the nervous system and causes weakness of muscles under voluntary control. Oligonucleotides are small strands of DNA or RNA that can bind to specific molecules of RNA. Nusinersen increases the production of SMN protein, which is deficient in these patients.

When should Nusinersen not be taken? (Contraindications)

Currently, there are no definite contraindications to the use of nusinersen.

What is the dosage of Nusinersen?

The dose of nusinersen injection is 12mg (5ml) per administration. The first three doses should be administered at 14-day intervals, and the fourth dose should be given 30 days after the third dose. One dose should be repeated every four months thereafter.

How should Nusinersen be taken?

Nusinersen injection is injected intrathecally (into the backbone) over 1-3 minutes so that it reaches the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), the fluid that bathes the brain and the spinal cord.

What are the warnings and precautions for Nusinersen?

• Allow the injection to come to room temperature before the administration.

• The solution must be injected within four hours of removal from the vial.

• A total of 5ml of cerebrospinal fluid has to be removed prior to the administration of injection.

• Monitor the platelet count, coagulation profile, and urine protein before beginning treatment and before each dose of the medication.

What are the side effects of Nusinersen?

Respiratory System: Respiratory tract infections, difficulty in breathing
Blood: Reduced platelet count, problems with blood clotting
Kidneys: Possible kidney damage
ENT: Ear infection
Gastrointestinal System: Constipation
Central Nervous System: Scoliosis (sideways curving of the spine).

What are the other precautions for Nusinersen?

• Nusinersen injection may increase the risk of bleeding. Therefore it is essential to perform blood tests for platelet count and clotting at the baseline before each dose of the drug to monitor for early signs.
• Do not administer the injection if there is a presence of any particular matter or discoloration.
• Check the urine for protein for any indication of renal toxicity

What are the storage conditions for Nusinersen?

Store the injection in a refrigerator between 2°C - 8 °C. Do not freeze. Protect from excess light.
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