Question 1

What is Tysabri?

Accepted Answer

Tysabri is a laboratory-made monoclonal antibody designed to target specific proteins on the surface of immune cells. By binding to these proteins, the medication limits the movement of white blood cells from the bloodstream into the brain, spinal cord, and digestive system.

This action helps reduce the inflammation and tissue damage associated with certain autoimmune disorders. It belongs to a class of drugs known as selective adhesion molecule inhibitors, which work by preventing immune cells from reaching areas where they can cause injury.

Question 2

What is Tysabri used for?

Accepted Answer

Tysabri is used to treat multiple sclerosis and Crohn's disease .

Question 3

How does Tysabri work?

Accepted Answer

Mechanism of Action

Tysabri (natalizumab) is a laboratory-made protein known as a monoclonal antibody. It is designed to recognize and attach to specific proteins on the surface of white blood cells, which are part of the body's immune system.

Blocking Immune Cell Movement

In conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS) and Crohn's disease, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues. To do this, white blood cells must travel through the bloodstream and cross into the central nervous system or the gastrointestinal tract.

Tysabri works by:

Binding to integrins: The medication attaches to a protein called alpha-4 integrin found on the surface of certain white blood cells.

Preventing migration: By blocking these proteins, Tysabri prevents the immune cells from sticking to and passing through the lining of blood vessels.

Reducing inflammation: Because the immune cells cannot reach the brain, spinal cord, or gut, they cannot cause the inflammation and damage associated with MS relapses or Crohn's disease flare-ups.

By limiting the number of inflammatory cells that reach these areas, the medication helps reduce the frequency of symptoms and may slow the progression of physical disability in patients with MS.

Question 4

What are the active ingredients in Tysabri?

Accepted Answer

The active ingredient in Tysabri is natalizumab .

Question 5

What are the side effects of Tysabri?

Accepted Answer

Common side effects of Tysabri may include:

headache

fatigue

urinary tract infection

and others

Always consult with a healthcare professional about potential side effects.

Question 6

What drug class is Tysabri?

Accepted Answer

Tysabri belongs to the monoclonal antibody drug class.

Question 7

What is the dosage of Tysabri and how do I take it?

Accepted Answer

Administration Method

Tysabri is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion into a vein. This procedure must be performed by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting, such as a doctor's office, infusion center, or hospital.

Dosing Schedule

The medication is generally administered once every four weeks. The infusion process takes about an hour to complete, followed by a period of observation where healthcare providers monitor for any potential reactions.

Missed Doses

If an appointment for an infusion is missed, it is important to contact a healthcare provider immediately to reschedule. The dose should be received as soon as possible to maintain the treatment schedule.

Special Requirements

Tysabri is only available through a restricted distribution program. Both the healthcare provider and the patient must be enrolled in this program to receive treatment.

Question 8

Is Tysabri safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

Pregnancy

There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of Tysabri in pregnant women. Animal studies have shown some potential for harm to the fetus, but animal studies do not always predict human response. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits of continuing treatment with your healthcare provider.

If Tysabri is used during the third trimester of pregnancy, the newborn should be monitored for potential blood abnormalities. Some infants exposed to the medication late in pregnancy have experienced low levels of platelets ( thrombocytopenia ) or red blood cells ( anemia ).

Breastfeeding

Tysabri has been found in human breast milk. It is not yet known how the medication affects a nursing infant or the mother's milk production. Because of the potential for adverse reactions in the infant, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the medication to the mother's health.

Question 9

What forms and strengths does Tysabri come in?

Accepted Answer

Available Forms

Tysabri is supplied in the following form:

Intravenous Injection: A sterile, preservative-free, concentrated solution that must be diluted before administration.

This medication is administered only as an infusion into a vein. It is not available as an oral medication, such as a tablet or capsule.

Question 10

What is the FDA approval status of Tysabri?

Accepted Answer

FDA Approval and Indications

Tysabri (natalizumab) is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of:

Relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS): This includes clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing-remitting disease, and active secondary progressive disease in adults.

Crohn's disease: It is used for adults with moderate-to-severe Crohn's disease who have not had an adequate response to, or are unable to tolerate, conventional therapies and certain other medications.

Boxed Warning and Safety Risks

The FDA requires a boxed warning for Tysabri because it increases the risk of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). PML is a rare but serious opportunistic viral infection of the brain that can lead to severe disability or death. Risk factors for developing PML include the presence of anti-JCV antibodies, longer duration of treatment, and prior use of immunosuppressant medications.

REMS Program

Because of the risk of PML, Tysabri is only available through a restricted distribution program called the TYSABRI REMS (Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy). Under this program:

Prescribers, pharmacies, and infusion centers must be specially certified.

Patients must be enrolled in the program and meet specific requirements to receive the medication.

Healthcare providers must monitor patients regularly for signs and symptoms of PML.

Regulatory History

Tysabri was originally approved in 2004 but was voluntarily withdrawn from the market in 2005 after reports of PML. Following a safety review, the FDA allowed the drug to return to the market in 2006 with the implementation of the mandatory REMS program to manage the associated risks.

Question 11

What should I know about Tysabri and infusion?

Accepted Answer

The Infusion Process

Tysabri is given through a needle or catheter placed into a vein, usually in the arm. Each infusion session takes approximately one hour to complete. Because of the potential for serious side effects, the medication must be administered in a clinical setting or infusion center that is certified through a specific safety program called the TOUCH Prescribing Program.

Monitoring and Observation

After the infusion is finished, patients must remain at the facility for at least one hour of observation. This allows healthcare providers to monitor for signs of an allergic reaction or other infusion-related complications. If a reaction occurs, medical staff are available to provide immediate treatment.

Infusion Reactions

Some people may experience side effects during or shortly after the infusion. These can include:

Dizziness or lightheadedness

Nausea or vomiting

Headache

Fatigue

Fever or chills

Skin rash or hives

Shortness of breath or chest pain

It is important to notify the healthcare provider immediately if any of these symptoms develop during or after the procedure. While most reactions occur during the infusion or within the first hour, some symptoms may appear later.

Tysabri

Medication Quick Facts

📋Overview

What It's Used For

How It Works

Side Effects

Warnings & Precautions

Dosage & How to Take

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Forms & Strengths

FDA / Regulatory Status

Infusion Information

FAQ

Additional Resources

Support & Help Resources

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