Efalizumab

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Generic Name of Efalizumab - Learn More

Efalizumab

Efalizumab Precaution - What You Need to Know

Before initiating treatment with Efalizumab, it is essential for patients to consult their healthcare provider. The following precautions must be considered:

- Infection Risk: Efalizumab is an immunosuppressive medication, and it may increase the risk of infections. Patients should be evaluated for any history of infections (e.g., tuberculosis, hepatitis, or opportunistic infections). Patients with active infections or a history of recurrent infections should avoid using Efalizumab.
- Liver Function: Efalizumab can have hepatotoxic effects. It is recommended that liver function be monitored throughout treatment, especially in patients with pre-existing liver conditions or in those who develop signs of liver impairment.
- Central Nervous System (CNS) Disorders: There have been reports of neurological side effects, including demyelinating conditions such as multiple sclerosis. Efalizumab should be used with caution in patients with a history of neurological disorders.
- Vaccinations: Live vaccinations should be avoided while on Efalizumab, as it can suppress the immune system and reduce the effectiveness of live vaccines. Non-live vaccines are generally preferred, but it is critical to discuss vaccination plans with a healthcare provider.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of Efalizumab during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established. It is recommended to avoid the medication unless absolutely necessary, and if used during pregnancy, it should be under strict medical supervision.

Efalizumab Indication - Uses and Benefits

Efalizumab is primarily indicated for the treatment of:

- Plaque Psoriasis: Efalizumab is used in the treatment of moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis in adults who are not candidates for topical therapies. It helps reduce the severity of the condition by targeting the immune cells involved in the inflammatory process.
- Psoriasis in Adults: It is specifically prescribed when patients have chronic plaque psoriasis and other systemic treatments are ineffective or not appropriate.

Efalizumab works by targeting the CD11a protein on T-cells, which plays a key role in the immune response, especially in inflammatory skin conditions like psoriasis.

Efalizumab Contraindications - Important Warnings

Efalizumab is contraindicated in the following situations:

- Hypersensitivity: It should not be used in individuals who have a known allergy or hypersensitivity to efalizumab or any of its components.
- Active Infections: Efalizumab is contraindicated in patients with active systemic infections, including tuberculosis, bacterial, fungal, or viral infections, as it may worsen the infection.
- Pregnancy: Efalizumab is contraindicated in pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks, and it should be avoided during breastfeeding.
- Neurological Disorders: It is contraindicated in patients with a history of demyelinating conditions like multiple sclerosis or other significant neurological disorders.
- Immunocompromised Conditions: Patients with severe immunodeficiencies, such as those with HIV/AIDS or on immunosuppressive therapy, should avoid using Efalizumab due to the increased risk of infections.

Efalizumab Side Effects - What to Expect

Efalizumab can cause both mild and severe side effects. Patients should monitor for the following:

- Common Side Effects:
- Flu-like symptoms: These can include fever, chills, fatigue, and malaise, especially during the first few weeks of treatment.
- Increased risk of infections: Respiratory infections, upper respiratory tract infections, and skin infections may occur.
- Headache: Some patients may experience headaches during treatment.
- Nausea or Vomiting: These gastrointestinal symptoms are common but tend to resolve over time.
- Rash: Patients may experience mild rashes, especially at the injection site.

- Severe Side Effects:
- Serious Infections: Due to its immunosuppressive effects, Efalizumab can lead to serious infections like tuberculosis, pneumonia, or systemic infections.
- Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML): This rare but life-threatening viral infection of the brain has been reported in patients treated with Efalizumab.
- Liver Toxicity: Efalizumab can cause liver damage, leading to elevated liver enzymes, jaundice, or other liver dysfunctions.
- Severe Allergic Reactions: Signs of a severe allergic reaction may include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, or skin reactions like hives. Immediate medical attention is necessary.
- Neurological Disorders: Symptoms such as dizziness, vision changes, or numbness should be reported immediately, as they could indicate neurological side effects.

Patients should report any unusual or severe symptoms to their healthcare provider promptly.

Efalizumab Pregnancy Category ID - Safety Information

3

Efalizumab Mode of Action - How It Works

Efalizumab works by specifically targeting the CD11a subunit of the LFA-1 (lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1) protein found on the surface of T-cells. LFA-1 is involved in the adhesion of immune cells to other cells during an immune response. By binding to CD11a, Efalizumab inhibits this adhesion process, preventing the migration of T-cells to sites of inflammation, such as the skin in patients with psoriasis. This mechanism effectively reduces the immune response, limiting the inflammation and skin cell turnover that characterizes plaque psoriasis. By modulating the immune system, Efalizumab reduces the severity of psoriasis lesions and helps control symptoms.

Efalizumab Drug Interactions - What to Avoid

Efalizumab may interact with other medications and substances:

- Immunosuppressive Agents: Concurrent use of other immunosuppressive drugs, including biologic therapies (e.g., TNF inhibitors) or methotrexate, may increase the risk of infections or immune-related complications.
- Vaccines: Live vaccines should be avoided during treatment with Efalizumab due to the risk of inadequate immune response. Additionally, certain vaccines might not be as effective while on immunosuppressive treatment.
- Cytochrome P450 Substrates: Although the direct interactions with CYP enzymes are minimal, patients should discuss the use of other medications metabolized by CYP450 enzymes with their doctor.
- Other Psoriasis Treatments: Caution should be used when combining Efalizumab with other systemic treatments for psoriasis, such as retinoids or phototherapy, as combined immunosuppressive effects may heighten the risk of side effects.

Efalizumab Adult Dose - Recommended Dosage

The typical adult dosage of Efalizumab for psoriasis is:

- Initial Dose: 0.7 mg/kg of body weight, administered subcutaneously once a week.
- Maintenance Dose: After the first 12 weeks of treatment, the maintenance dose is typically 1.0 mg/kg once a week.

Efalizumab Child Dose - Dosage for Children

Efalizumab is generally not recommended for pediatric patients. It is approved only for use in adults with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. The safety and efficacy of Efalizumab in children and adolescents have not been established, and its use should be restricted to adult patients under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

As with all biologic medications, patients should consult their healthcare provider before starting treatment with Efalizumab to discuss individual health needs, potential risks, and alternative therapies.

Efalizumab Renal Dose - Dosage for Kidney Conditions

There is limited data on dose adjustments for renal impairment. As Efalizumab is not primarily cleared by the kidneys, dosage adjustments are not routinely necessary for patients with mild to moderate renal impairment. However, patients with severe renal dysfunction should be monitored closely due to potential increased risk of side effects.