A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding Saphnelo Prescribing Information
Are you seeking a comprehensive guide to understanding Saphnelo prescribing information? You’re in the right place. Saphnelo, also known as anifrolumab-fnia, is a new type of biologic drug developed by AstraZeneca for treating systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
In this article, we’ll provide you with a detailed overview of Saphnelo, its prescribing information, and everything else you need to know before prescribing it to your patients.
What is Saphnelo?
Saphnelo is a subcutaneous (under the skin) injectable medication that belongs to the class of biologics called monoclonal antibodies, designed to target BLyS (B-lymphocyte stimulator) protein. BLyS is a protein that helps maintain the survival of B-cells in the bloodstream. B-cells then produce autoantibodies that attack the body’s own healthy cells and tissues, causing the symptoms of SLE.
Saphnelo targets BLyS protein and helps prevent B-cell depletion, which can help improve SLE symptoms. It is FDA-approved for the treatment of moderate to severe active SLE in adults.
How does Saphnelo work?
Saphnelo works by blocking BLyS protein. As a result, it helps prevent the survival of B-cells that produce autoantibodies that attack the body’s own healthy cells, leading to a reduction in SLE symptoms.
In clinical trials, Saphnelo has been shown to reduce the frequency and severity of SLE flares, improve skin rashes, joint pain, and fatigue. It can also reduce the need for high-dose corticosteroids, which can cause significant side effects.
What are the dosing recommendations for Saphnelo?
The dosing recommendation for Saphnelo is 300 mg given as two 150 mg injections subcutaneously every 4 weeks. Prior to administering Saphnelo, patients should be screened for active, latent, or treated TB, and should be tested for hepatitis B and C infections.
Saphnelo must be administered by a healthcare professional and should not be self-injected. Patients should receive pre-medication with an antihistamine before the injection to reduce the risk of infusion-related reactions.
What are the side effects of Saphnelo?
The most common side effects of Saphnelo include injection site reactions, respiratory infections, and nausea. Infusion-related reactions are rare but can occur, and appropriate precautions should be taken when administering Saphnelo.
Additionally, because Saphnelo suppresses the immune system, infections may occur more frequently, and patients should be monitored for signs of infection.
Conclusion
Saphnelo is a monoclonal antibody that helps block BLyS protein and prevent B-cell depletion in patients with moderate to severe active SLE. It is given as two 150 mg injections subcutaneously every 4 weeks, and it has been shown to reduce SLE flares, improve skin rashes, joint pain, and fatigue, and reduce the need for high-dose corticosteroids.
As with any medication, there are potential side effects to be aware of, including injection site reactions, respiratory infections, and infusion-related reactions. However, Saphnelo has shown to be an effective and promising treatment option for patients with SLE.
If you’re considering prescribing Saphnelo to your patients, it’s crucial to understand the prescribing information and dosing recommendations. Consult with your patients’ healthcare team and carefully monitor their symptoms for any changes.
