Side Effects of Kesimpta: An Overview and Guidance on Management
Kesimpta, a brand-name subcutaneous injection, is prescribed for treating clinically isolated syndrome (CIS), relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), and active secondary progressive MS (SPMS). While Kesimpta offers benefits for managing these conditions, it's essential to understand its potential side effects.
The drug causes long-term depletion of B cells, a type of immune cell involved in antibody production. This B-cell depletion leads to a weakened immune system and increased susceptibility to infections. Key long-term effects of Kesimpta on the immune system include an increased risk of serious infections, lowered immunoglobulin M levels, potential allergic reactions, and potential reactivation of existing hepatitis B virus in people who have this virus.
Mild infections were very common in clinical trials of Kesimpta, while serious infections were less common. However, there is a risk of uncommon, more serious infections during Kesimpta treatment that may require hospitalization. Before starting Kesimpta, discuss any current or chronic infections with your doctor. A blood test is required to check for an active or past hepatitis B infection before treatment begins.
Injection site reactions occur near the area of the injection and are typically mild or moderate, lasting a few days. Symptoms may include itching, pain, swelling, skin redness or discoloration. Injection-related reactions were common in clinical trials of Kesimpta and can be a sign of an allergic reaction. Mild allergic reactions can also occur with Kesimpta use. Injection-related reactions are more common with the first dose of Kesimpta and will be administered at a doctor's office or clinic for monitoring.
Kesimpta treatment does not cause weight gain, hair loss, or chemotherapy-like effects. However, low levels of immunoglobulins occurred in clinical trials of Kesimpta, increasing the risk of frequent or severe infections. Symptoms of low immunoglobulins can include fever, skin rash, and frequent infections.
It is important to talk with your doctor about any infections you have and any vaccinations you might need before starting Kesimpta. Medical providers monitor patients receiving Kesimpta for signs of infection and immune system function to manage these risks. Since Kesimpta is an immunosuppressive therapy, combining it with other immunosuppressants may further increase infection risk and is generally avoided.
Discuss your health history with your doctor before starting Kesimpta treatment, as certain medical conditions or factors may affect your suitability for the drug. Serious infections may occur during Kesimpta treatment, increasing the risk of both mild and serious infections. Symptoms of serious infections can include fever, fatigue, and pain, and it's crucial to seek medical attention immediately if these symptoms arise.
In conclusion, while Kesimpta offers benefits for managing certain forms of multiple sclerosis, it's essential to be aware of its potential side effects, particularly its impact on the immune system. Regular communication with your healthcare provider and careful monitoring are crucial for managing these risks and ensuring the best possible treatment outcome.
- Kesimpta, a drug for treating multiple sclerosis (MS) and its related conditions, causes long-term depletion of B cells, increasing the risk of infections.
- Patients receiving Kesimpta should be monitored for signs of infection and immune system function to manage these risks, as serious infections may occur.
- Before starting Kesimpta treatment, discuss any current or chronic infections with your doctor, as well as your medical history, as certain conditions or factors may affect your suitability for the drug.
- Kesimpta may lead to an increased risk of serious infections, lowered immunoglobulin M levels, potential allergic reactions, and potential reactivation of existing hepatitis B virus.
- Regular communication with your healthcare provider and careful monitoring are crucial for managing Kesimpta's potential side effects and ensuring the best possible treatment outcome, as Kesimpta is an immunosuppressive therapy.
