Sarilumab
Drug Name(s): Kevzara
Class: Biologics
Type: IL-Inhibitor
Used to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA), polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR), polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis, and off-label for COVID-19.
Dosage
Form(s): injection (pre-filled syringe or autopinjector)
200 mg subcutaneous injection every other week.
Dosage varies for COVID-19.
Special Instructions
Must be kept refrigerated. Remove drug from refrigerator and allow it to warm to room temperature before injecting. Inject into front of thigh or abdomen. Change injection site each time you inject. Do not inject into skin that is tender, damaged or has bruises or scars.
Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception during treatment.
Potential Side Effects
Redness and swelling at injection site, upper respiratory infections and urinary tract infections
Be Aware
This and all biologics suppress the immune system and may increase your risk of infections. Tell your doctor if you have an active infection. Do not start treatment if you have a serious or recurrent infection (such as pneumonia). You should be tested for tuberculosis before starting this medication. Do not get a live vaccine when taking biologics.
This medication may lower white blood cell and platelet counts, which may make it hard for your body to fight infections and stop bleeding. It has also been linked to high cholesterol and triglycerides, a type of blood fat. You should have regular cholesterol tests. Perforations of the gastrointestinal tract have been reported in patients taking this medication, most often in those who also used NSAIDs. Tell your doctor if you have severe or persistent stomach pain.
