Nusinersen (injection)
Generic name: nusinersen (injection) [ NUE-si-NER-sen ]
Brand name: Spinraza
Dosage form: intrathecal solution (12 mg/5 mL)
Drug class:Miscellaneous uncategorized agents
What is nusinersen?
Nusinersen works by helping the body produce a protein essential to the function of nerves that control muscle movement. This protein is lacking in people with an inherited disorder called spinal muscular atrophy caused by a mutation in a specific gene.
Nusinersen is used to treat spinal muscular atrophy in adults, children, and infants.
Nusinersen may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Call your doctor for instructions if you miss an appointment for your nusinersen injection.
Before taking this medicine
You should not be treated with nusinersen if you are allergic to it.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
kidney disease; or
bleeding problems.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
How is nusinersen given?
Your doctor will perform blood and urine tests to make sure you do not have conditions that would prevent you from safely receiving nusinersen.
Nusinersen is injected directly into the fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord (cerebrospinal fluid). A healthcare provider will give you this injection.
The nusinersen injection takes about 1 to 3 minutes to complete. You may be given a sedative to help you relax and keep you comfortable during the injection.
Nusinersen is usually given in a series of 4 "loading dose" injections, followed by "maintenance" injections.
The first 3 loading doses are usually given 2 weeks apart, followed by a 4th loading dose given 1 month later. Maintenance doses are then given once every 4 months.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Call your doctor for instructions if you miss an appointment for your nusinersen injection. Your dosing schedule may need to be adjusted to allow for enough time between doses.
What happens if I overdose?
Since nusinersen is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to occur.
What should I avoid while receiving nusinersen?
Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
Nusinersen side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction:hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Nusinersen may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:
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