Source: FDA, National Drug Code (US) Revision Year: 2020
UPLIZNA is indicated for the treatment of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) in adult patients who are anti-aquaporin-4 (AQP4) antibody positive.
Prior to initiating UPLIZNA, perform Hepatitis B virus (HBV) screening. UPLIZNA is contraindicated in patients with active HBV confirmed by positive results for surface antigen [HBsAg] and anti-HBV tests. For patients who are negative for HBsAg and positive for HB core antibody [HBcAb+] or are carriers of HBV [HBsAg+], consult liver disease experts before starting and during treatment with UPLIZNA [see Contraindications (4) and Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].
Prior to initiating UPLIZNA, perform testing for quantitative serum immunoglobulins. For patients with low serum immunoglobulins, consult immunology experts before initiating treatment with UPLIZNA [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].
Prior to initiating UPLIZNA, evaluate for active tuberculosis and test for latent infection. For patients with active tuberculosis or positive tuberculosis screening without a history of appropriate treatment, consult infectious disease experts before initiating treatment with UPLIZNA [see Contraindications (4) and Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].
Because vaccination with live-attenuated or live vaccines is not recommended during treatment and after discontinuation until B-cell repletion, administer all immunizations according to immunization guidelines at least 4 weeks prior to initiation of UPLIZNA for live or live-attenuated vaccines [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.2)].
Prior to every infusion of UPLIZNA, determine whether there is an active infection. In case of active infection, delay infusion of UPLIZNA until the infection resolves [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].
Table 1 shows premedication to administer prior to each infusion of UPLIZNA to reduce the frequency and severity of infusion reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].
Table 1. Premedication Prior to Each UPLIZNA Infusion:
Type of Premedication | Route of Administration | Examples (or Equivalent) | Administration Time Prior to UPLIZNA Infusion |
---|---|---|---|
corticosteroid | intravenous | methylprednisolone 80 mg to 125 mg | 30 minutes |
antihistamine | oral | diphenhydramine 25 mg to 50 mg | 30 to 60 minutes |
antipyretic | oral | acetaminophen 500 mg to 650 mg | 30 to 60 minutes |
UPLIZNA is administered as an intravenous infusion (see Table 2). The recommended dosage is:
UPLIZNA must be diluted prior to administration [see Dosage and Administration (2.4)].
Prior to the start of the intravenous infusion, the prepared infusion solution should be at room temperature.
Administer UPLIZNA under the close supervision of an experienced healthcare professional with access to appropriate medical support to manage potential severe reactions such as serious infusion reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].
Administer the prepared solution intravenously via an infusion pump at an increasing rate to completion, approximately 90 minutes, according to the schedule in Table 2. Administer through an intravenous line containing a sterile, low-protein binding 0.2 or 0.22 micron in-line filter.
Table 2 Recommended Infusion Rate for UPLIZNA Administration When Diluted in a 250 mL Intravenous Bag:
Elapsed Time (minutes) | Infusion Rate (mL/hour) |
---|---|
0-30 | 42 |
31-60 | 125 |
61 to completion | 333 |
Monitor the patient closely for infusion reactions during and for at least one hour after the completion of the infusion.
Visually inspect UPLIZNA solution for particulate matter and discoloration [see Dosage Forms and Strengths (3)]. If the solution is cloudy, discolored, or it contains discrete particulate matter, do not use and contact the manufacturer (productsafety@vielabio.com). Do not shake the vial.
UPLIZNA does not contain a preservative.
Administer the prepared infusion solution immediately. If not administered immediately, store the infusion solution for a maximum of 24 hours in the refrigerator between 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) or 4 hours at room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) prior to the start of the infusion.
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