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Ravulizumab-CwvzPronounced"RAV-ue-LIZ-ue-mab" Common brand names:Ultomiris UsesRavulizumab is used to treat a certain blood disorder (paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria). This disorder causes your body's immune system to destroy red blood cells, which results in anemia. It works by helping block your body's destruction of red blood cells. This effect helps lessen symptoms of anemia (such as tiredness, shortness of breath), and may reduce the need for blood transfusions. This medication may also be used to treat a certain immune system disorder (atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome). It helps to prevent blood clots caused by this disorder. Ravulizumab may be used to treat a certain muscle condition (generalized myasthenia gravis). It may help to improve symptoms of muscle weakness. This medication is also used to treat a certain nervous system disorder that affects the spinal cord and eye nerve (neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder). It may help to reduce the number of hospital stays due to the disease. Ravulizumab belongs to a class of medications known as monoclonal antibodies. How to Use This MedicationRead the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using ravulizumab and each time you get an infusion. Carry the Patient Safety Card with you at all times during treatment and for 8 months after your last dose of ravulizumab. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. This medication is given by slow injection into a vein by a health care professional as directed by your doctor. After the first dose, it is usually given 2 weeks later, then every 4 or every 8 weeks. The dosage is based on your medical condition, weight, and response to treatment. Infusion reactions may happen during the infusion of this drug. Tell your doctor right away if you have any symptoms of infusion reactions such as low back or arm/leg pain, abdominal pain, shaking, tiredness, bad taste in mouth, drowsiness, or feeling faint. Your doctor may give you other medications to help with these side effects or may stop your treatment for some time. Do not stop using this medication without consulting your doctor. Your condition may become worse when the drug is stopped. If you do stop using this medication, your doctor will monitor you for at least 16 weeks to make sure your condition does not get worse. Consult your doctor for more details. Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse. |