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KEVZARA

SARILUMAB

Standard Dose
2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION General Considerations for Administration KEVZARA initiation is not recommended in patients with ANC less than 2,000/mm 3 , platelets less than 150,000/mm 3 or liver transaminases above 1.5 times ULN. See Full Prescribing Information (FPI) for complete information. ( 2.1 ) Recommended Dosage in RA The recommended dosage is 200 mg subcutaneously, once every 2 weeks. ( 2.2 ) For RA, KEVZARA may be used as monotherapy or in combination with methotrexate (MTX) or other conventional DMARDs. ( 2.2 ) Recommended Dosage in PMR The recommended dosage is 200 mg subcutaneously, once every two weeks in combination with a tapering course of corticosteroids. ( 2.3 ) For PMR, KEVZARA can be used as monotherapy following discontinuation of corticosteroids. ( 2.3 ) Recommended Dosage in pJIA The recommended dosage is 200 mg given subcutaneously once every 2 weeks for pJIA patients who weigh 63 kg or greater using the 200 mg/1.14 mL pre-filled syringe. ( 2.4 ) For pJIA, KEVZARA can be used as monotherapy or in combination with conventional DMARDs. ( 2.4 ) Dosage Modifications for Cytopenias, Abnormal Liver Enzymes, Infections See FPI for complete information. ( 2.6 ) 2.1 General Considerations Prior to Administration Not Recommended for Concomitant Use with Biological DMARDS The concurrent use of KEVZARA with biological DMARDs such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) antagonists, IL-1R antagonists, anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies and selective co-stimulation modulators has not been studied. Avoid using KEVZARA with biological DMARDs because of the possibility of increased immunosuppression and increased risk of infection. Recommended Evaluations Prior to Treatment Complete blood count (CBC): Treatment initiation with KEVZARA is not recommended in patients with an absolute neutrophil count (ANC) below 2000 per mm 3 , or platelet count below 150,000 per mm 3 . Monitor laboratory parameters [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ]. Liver function tests (LFT): Treatment initiation with KEVZARA is not recommended in patients with or who have alanine transaminase (ALT) or aspartate aminotransferase (AST) above 1.5 times the upper limit of normal (ULN). Monitor laboratory parameters [see Dosage and Administration (2.6) and Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . Lipid parameters (total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and/or triglycerides): Assess lipid parameters at baseline. Monitor laboratory parameters [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ]. Active and latent tuberculosis infection evaluation: Prior to initiating KEVZARA, test patients for active and latent tuberculosis (TB). KEVZARA should not be administered to patients with active TB. If positive for latent infection, consider treating for TB prior to KEVZARA use [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. Evaluate for infections: Avoid KEVZARA use in patients with active infections [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . 2.2 Recommended Dosage for Rheumatoid Arthritis The recommended dosage of KEVZARA is 200 mg once every two weeks given as a subcutaneous injection [see Dosage and Administration (2.1) ]. KEVZARA may be used as monotherapy or in combination with methotrexate (MTX) or other conventional DMARDs. Modify the dosage as recommended in Table 1 if the patient develops neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, or liver enzyme abnormalities [see Dosage and Administration (2.6) , Warnings and Precautions (5.2) and Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. 2.3 Recommended Dosage for Polymyalgia Rheumatica The recommended dosage of KEVZARA is 200 mg once every two weeks given as a subcutaneous injection, in combination with a tapering course of systemic corticosteroids [see Dosage and Administration (2.1) ] . KEVZARA can be used as monotherapy following discontinuation of corticosteroids. Discontinue KEVZARA if the patient develops neutropenia (using ANC results obtained at the end of the dosing interval), thrombocytopenia, or liver enzyme abnormalities [see Dosage and Administration (2.6) , Warnings and Precautions (5.2) and Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. 2.4 Recommended Dosage for Polyarticular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis The recommended dosage of KEVZARA for patients who weigh 63 kg and greater is 200 mg once every two weeks given as a subcutaneous injection (maximum dose 200 mg). Dosage in this patient population can be achieved by administering the 200 mg/1.14 mL pre-filled syringe. The pre-filled pen is not intended for use in pediatric patients [see Dosage and Administration (2.6) , Warnings and Precautions (5.2) and Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. KEVZARA is not approved in pediatric patients weighing less than 63 kg because of the lack of an appropriate dosage form. In patients with pJIA, KEVZARA can be used alone or in combination with conventional DMARDs. 2.5 Preparation and Administration Instructions Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration. KEVZARA solution should be clear and colorless to pale yellow. Do not use if the solution is cloudy, discolored or contains particles, or if any part of the pre-filled syringe or pre-filled pen appears to be damaged. Rotate injection sites with each injection. Do not inject into skin that is tender, damaged, or has bruises or scars. Pre-filled Pen and Pre-filled Syringe KEVZARA is intended for use under the guidance of a healthcare professional. A patient may self-inject KEVZARA or the patient's caregiver may administer KEVZARA. Provide proper training to patients and/or caregivers on the preparation and administration of KEVZARA prior to use according to the Instructions for Use (IFU). Allow the pre-filled syringe to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes prior to subcutaneous injection. Do not warm KEVZARA in any other way. If using a pre-filled pen, allow the pre-filled pen to sit at room temperature for 60 minutes prior to subcutaneous injection. Do not warm KEVZARA in any other way. Instruct patients to inject the full amount in the syringe or pen (1.14 mL), which provides 200 mg or 150 mg of KEVZARA, according to the directions provided in the IFU. The ability of pediatric patients to self-inject with the pre-filled pen has not been tested. 2.6 Dosage Modifications for Cytopenias, Abnormal Liver Enzymes, or Infections Dosage Modifications for Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis Laboratory Abnormalities : Modify dosage in case of neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, or liver enzyme elevations as shown in Table 1 [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.2) ] . For treatment initiation criteria, refer to the dosage recommendations for RA [see Dosage and Administration (2.1 , 2.2) ] . Table 1: Dosage Modifications due to Neutropenia, Thrombocytopenia, or Elevated Liver Enzymes in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis Low Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC) Lab Value (cells/mm 3 ) Recommendation ANC greater than 1,000 Maintain current dosage of KEVZARA. ANC 500 to 1,000 Hold treatment with KEVZARA until ANC greater than 1,000. KEVZARA can then be resumed at 150 mg every two weeks and increased to 200 mg every two weeks as clinically appropriate. ANC less than 500 Discontinue KEVZARA. Low Platelet Count Lab Value (cells/mm 3 ) Recommendation 50,000 to 100,000 Hold treatment with KEVZARA until platelets greater than 100,000. KEVZARA can then be resumed at 150 mg every two weeks and increased to 200 mg every two weeks as clinically appropriate. Less than 50,000 If confirmed by repeat testing, discontinue KEVZARA. Liver Enzyme Abnormalities Lab Value Recommendation ALT or AST greater than ULN to 3 times ULN Consider dosage modification of concomitant DMARDs as clinically appropriate. ALT or AST greater than 3 times ULN to 5 times ULN Hold treatment with KEVZARA until ALT or AST less than 3 times ULN. KEVZARA can then be resumed at 150 mg every two weeks and increased to 200 mg every two weeks as clinically appropriate. ALT or AST greater than 5 times ULN Discontinue KEVZARA. Infections: If a patient with RA develops a serious infection or an opportunistic infection, hold treatment with KEVZARA until the infection is controlled [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. Dosage Modifications for Patients with Polymyalgia Rheumatica Laboratory Abnormalities : Discontinue KEVZARA in patients with PMR who develop the following laboratory abnormalities [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.2) ] : neutropenia (ANC below 1,000 per mm 3 at the end of the dosing interval) thrombocytopenia (platelet count below 100,000 per mm 3 ) AST or ALT elevations 3 times above the ULN Dosage modifications have not been studied in patients with PMR with these conditions. For treatment initiation criteria, refer to the dosage recommendations for PMR [see Dosage and Administration (2.1 , 2.3) ] . Infections : If a patient with PMR develops a serious infection or an opportunistic infection, hold treatment with KEVZARA until the infection is controlled [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. Dosage Modification for Patients with Polyarticular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis Dose reduction of KEVZARA has not been studied in the pJIA population. Discontinue KEVZARA if ALT >5 ULN, platelet count ≤50,000 cells/mm 3 , neutrophil count 3 to ≤5 ULN, platelet count >50,000 to ≤100,000 cells/mm 3 , and neutrophil count ≥500 to <1000 cells/mm 3 , and until the clinical condition has been evaluated. The decision to discontinue KEVZARA should be based upon the medical assessment of the individual patient. If appropriate, the dose of concomitant methotrexate and/or other medications should be modified or discontinued.
Max Dose
See official label
Primary Use
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE KEVZARA ® is an interleukin-6 (IL-6) receptor antagonist indicated for treatment of: adult patients with moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to one or more disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs).
Summary

Indications and usage 1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE KEVZARA ® is an interleukin-6 (IL-6) receptor antagonist indicated for treatment of: adult patients with moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to one or more disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). ( 1.1 ) adult patients with polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) who have had an inadequate response to corticosteroids or who cannot tolerate corticosteroid taper. ( 1.2 ) patients who weigh 63 kg or greater with active polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (pJIA). ( 1.3 ) 1.1 Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) KEVZARA ® is indicated for treatment of adult patients with moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to one or more disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). 1.2 Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) KEVZARA is indicated for treatment of adult patients with polymyalgia rheumatica who have had an inadequate response to corticosteroids or who cannot tolerate corticosteroid taper. 1.3 Polyarticular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (pJIA) KEVZARA is indicated for treatment of active polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (pJIA) in patients who weigh 63 kg or greater.

Dosage and administration 2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION General Considerations for Administration KEVZARA initiation is not recommended in patients with ANC less than 2,000/mm 3 , platelets less than 150,000/mm 3 or liver transaminases above 1.5 times ULN.

Structured Monograph

Clinical summary

Indications and usage 1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE KEVZARA ® is an interleukin-6 (IL-6) receptor antagonist indicated for treatment of: adult patients with moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to one or more disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). ( 1.1 ) adult patients with polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) who have had an inadequate response to corticosteroids or who cannot tolerate corticosteroid taper. ( 1.2 ) patients who weigh 63 kg or greater with active polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (pJIA). ( 1.3 ) 1.1 Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) KEVZARA ® is indicated for treatment of adult patients with moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis who have had an inadequate response or intolerance to one or more disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). 1.2 Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) KEVZARA is indicated for treatment of adult patients with polymyalgia rheumatica who have had an inadequate response to corticosteroids or who cannot tolerate corticosteroid taper. 1.3 Polyarticular Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (pJIA) KEVZARA is indicated for treatment of active polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (pJIA) in patients who weigh 63 kg or greater. Dosage and administration 2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION General Considerations for Administration KEVZARA initiation is not recommended in patients with ANC less than 2,000/mm 3 , platelets less than 150,000/mm 3 or liver transaminases above 1.5 times ULN. See Full Prescribing Information (FPI) for complete information. ( 2.1 ) Recommended Dosage in RA The recommended dosage is 200 mg subcutaneously, once every 2 weeks. ( 2.2 ) For RA, KEVZARA may be used as monotherapy or in combination with methotrexate (MTX) or other conventional DMARDs. ( 2.2 ) Recommended Dosage in PMR The recommended dosage is 200 mg subcutaneously, once every two weeks in combination with a tapering course of corticosteroids. ( 2.3 ) For PMR, KEVZARA can be used as monotherapy following discontinuation of corticosteroids. ( 2.3 ) Recommended Dosage in pJIA The recommended dosage is 200 mg given subcutaneously once every 2 weeks for pJIA patients who weigh 63 kg or greater using the 200 mg/1.14 mL pre-filled syringe. ( 2.4 ) For pJIA, KEVZARA can be used as monotherapy or in combination with conventional DMARDs. ( 2.4 ) Dosage Modifications for Cytopenias, Abnormal Liver Enzymes, Infections See FPI for complete information. ( 2.6 ) 2.1 General Considerations Prior to Administration Not Recommended for Concomitant Use with Biological DMARDS The concurrent use of KEVZARA with biological DMARDs such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) antagonists, IL-1R antagonists, anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies and selective co-stimulation modulators has not been studied. Avoid using KEVZARA with biological DMARDs because of the possibility of increased immunosuppression and increased risk of infection. Recommended Evaluations Prior to Treatment Complete blood count (CBC): Treatment initiation with KEVZARA is not recommended in patients with an absolute neutrophil count (ANC) below 2000 per mm 3 , or platelet count below 150,000 per mm 3 . Monitor laboratory parameters [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ]. Liver function tests (LFT): Treatment initiation with KEVZARA is not recommended in patients with or who have alanine transaminase (ALT) or aspartate aminotransferase (AST) above 1.5 times the upper limit of normal (ULN). Monitor laboratory parameters [see Dosage and Administration (2.6) and Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . Lipid parameters (total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and/or triglycerides): Assess lipid parameters at baseline. Monitor laboratory parameters [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ]. Active and latent tuberculosis infection evaluation: Prior to initiating KEVZARA, test patients for active and latent tuberculosis (TB). KEVZARA should not be administered to patients with active TB. If positive for latent infection, consider treating for TB prior to KEVZARA use [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. Evaluate for infections: Avoid KEVZARA use in patients with active infections [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . 2.2 Recommended Dosage for Rheumatoid Arthritis The recommended dosage of KEVZARA is 200 mg once every two weeks given as a subcutaneous injection [see Dosage and Administration (2.1) ]. KEVZARA may be used as monotherapy or in combination with methotrexate (MTX) or other conventional DMARDs. Modify the dosage as recommended in Table 1 if the patient develops neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, or liver enzyme abnormalities [see Dosage and Administration (2.6) , Warnings and Precautions (5.2) and Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. 2.3 Recommended Dosage for Polymyalgia Rheumatica The recommended dosage of KEVZARA is 200 mg once every two weeks given as a subcutaneous injection, in combination with a tapering course of systemic corticosteroids [see Dosage and Administration (2.1) ] . KEVZARA c

Boxed Warning

WARNING: RISK OF SERIOUS INFECTIONS Patients treated with KEVZARA are at increased risk for developing serious infections that may lead to hospitalization or death [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) , Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. Opportunistic infections have also been reported in patients receiving KEVZARA. Most patients who developed infections were taking concomitant immunosuppressants such as methotrexate or corticosteroids. Avoid use of KEVZARA in patients with an active infection. Reported infections include: Active tuberculosis, which may present with pulmonary or extrapulmonary disease. Patients should be tested for latent tuberculosis before KEVZARA use and during therapy. Treatment for latent infection should be initiated prior to KEVZARA use. Invasive fungal infections, such as candidiasis, and pneumocystis. Patients with invasive fungal infections may present with disseminated, rather than localized, disease. Bacterial, viral and other infections due to opportunistic pathogens. Closely monitor patients for signs and symptoms of infection during treatment with KEVZARA. If a serious infection develops, interrupt KEVZARA until the infection is controlled. Consider the risks and benefits of treatment with KEVZARA prior to initiating therapy in patients with chronic or recurrent infection. WARNING: RISK OF SERIOUS INFECTIONS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning . Serious infections leading to hospitalization or death including bacterial, viral, invasive fungal, and other opportunistic infections have occurred in patients receiving KEVZARA. ( 5.1 ) If a serious infection develops, interrupt KEVZARA until the infection is controlled. ( 5.1 ) Cases of tuberculosis (TB) have been reported. Prior to starting KEVZARA, test for latent TB; if positive, start treatment for TB. ( 5.1 ) Closely monitor patients for signs and symptoms of infection during treatment with KEVZARA. ( 5.1 )

Monitoring

  • 5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Serious Infections: Avoid KEVZARA use during an active infection.
  • ( 5.1 ) Neutropenia, Thrombocytopenia, Elevated Liver Enzymes, Lipid Abnormalities: Monitor laboratory parameters.
  • ( 5.2 ) Gastrointestinal (GI) Perforation: Risk may be increased with concurrent diverticulitis or concomitant use of NSAIDs or corticosteroids.
  • Promptly evaluate acute abdominal signs or symptoms.

Interaction Notes

  • 7 DRUG INTERACTIONS 7.1 Use with Other Drugs Population pharmacokinetic analyses did not detect any effect of methotrexate (MTX) on sarilumab clearance.
  • KEVZARA has not been investigated in combination with JAK inhibitors or biological DMARDs such as TNF antagonists [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) ] .
  • 7.2 Interactions with CYP450 Substrates Various in vitro and limited in vivo human studies have shown that cytokines and cytokine modulators can influence the expression and activity of specific cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes and therefore have the potential to alter the pharmacokinetics of concomitantly administered drugs that are substrates of these enzymes.
  • Elevated interleukin-6 (IL-6) concentration may down-regulate CYP activity such as in patients with RA and hence increase drug levels compared to subjects without RA.
KEVZARA (SARILUMAB) | Drug Monograph | MedicHelpline