Treatment Options for Myasthenia Gravis with Ultomiris: Insights and Details
Revamped Article:
Take a gander at Ultomiris (ravulizumab-cwvz), a badass brand name injectable solution for managing myasthenia gravis. Here's the lowdown on side effects, dosage, and what Ultomiris actually does for you.
Ultomiris is an intravenous (IV) injection that a healthcare professional doled out to you. It's a biotech wonder, belonging to a family of drugs known as complement inhibitors - there's no generic or biosimilar alternative, pal.
Want more deets about Ultomiris? Dive into this in-depth Ultomiris write-up.
Ultomiris flashes a boxed warning, a big red flag from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), fer shur. For the scoop, scoot over to the "Prepping for Ultomiris" section.
Myasthenia Gravis Demystified
Myasthenia gravis is a snarl of muscle and nerve communication issues. This chronic (long-term) autoimmune condition messes with your voluntary muscles, making them tucker out quickly and weaken. It's all down to your immune system attacking its own cells[1].
Myasthenia Gravis Symptoms
The symptoms of myasthenia gravis can vary person to person, but they usually worsen during activity and improve with rest[1]. Keep an eye out for:
Body weight
- slack eyelids
- weak muscles in your arms, legs, neck, and eyes
- Fatigue (yup, we said it)
- blurry or double vision
- difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking, and breathing
Who Gets Ultomiris?
Loading dose
Ultomiris is prescribed for adults who have generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) and test positive for anti-acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibodies[1].
- Generalized means multiple muscle groups throughout your body are impacted. Different from ocular myasthenia gravis, which only jams up the eye muscles.
- Anti-acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibodies are those nasty little molecules your immune system makes. They block acetylcholine receptors[1]. Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter that shouts "contract" to your muscles.
Maintenance dose
Before you get your Ultomiris script, your doc might run a blood test to check if your gMG is AChR antibody positive[2]. Your doc can fill you in on whether Ultomiris is right for your strain of myasthenia gravis.
How Ultomiris Makes a Difference
If your doc writes you a prescription for Ultomiris, you might be curious about how it works its magic on your myasthenia gravis.
Drilling Down on Ultomiris's Action
40 kg to less than 60 kg (approximately 88 lb to less than 132 lb)
The specifics on how Ultomiris zaps myasthenia gravis aren't all figured out. But it's believed that it makes a move by clamping down on the activity of a complement system protein called C5 at the neuromuscular junction (NMJ)[1].
The NMJ is where nerve cells and the muscles they manage chat with each other. By yanking down C5 activity at the NMJ, Ultomiris lets nerve signals cannonball through to your muscles. This could help fend off fatigue and muscle weakness, potentially boosting muscle strength[1].
2,400 mg
How Well Does Ultomiris Work?
In certain studies, Ultomiris improved the ability to handle day-to-day activities in adults with generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) who tested AChR antibody positive[1].
3,000 mg every 8 weeks
Check out the Ultomiris prescribing info for more facts about these studies. Your doctor or pharmacist can offer details about how well Ultomiris did in these studies.
Scoring Ultomiris for Myasthenia Gravis
Check out the standard Ultomiris dosage guide for myasthenia gravis. Your doctor will figure out the best dose for you. Feel free to ask questions about your Ultomiris dosage or how you'll receive the meds[2].
Ultomiris is available in three concentrations:
60 kg to less than 100 kg (approximately 132 lb to less than 220 lb)
- 300 milligrams (mg) per 30 milliliters (mL)
- 300 mg per 3 mL
- 1,100 mg per 11 mL
Prescription Dose
2,700 mg
The recommended Ultomiris doses for treating myasthenia gravis are based on your body weight in kilograms (kg)[2].
Ultomiris treatment usually starts with a loading dose. Two weeks after the loading dose, you'll move on to the maintenance dose, which you'll usually snag every 8 weeks[2].
3,300 mg every 8 weeks
Ride through this table to see recommended Ultomiris doses based on weight:
| Body Weight | Loading Dose | Maintenance Dose ||------------|-------------|------------------|| 40 kg to less than 60 kg (about 88 lb to less than 132 lb) | 2,400 mg | 3,000 mg every 8 weeks || 60 kg to less than 100 kg (about 132 lb to less than 220 lb) | 2,700 mg | 3,300 mg every 8 weeks || 100 kg or more (about 220 lb or more) | 3,000 mg | 3,600 mg every 8 weeks |
FYI: In addition to treating myasthenia gravis, Ultomiris serves other purposes. Remember, the drug's dosage may vary when treating other conditions. Hit up your doc to chat further.
Ultomiris Delivery
100 kg or more (approximately 220 lb or more)
Ultomiris comes as a solution for IV injection. A healthcare professional will administer your Ultomiris infusions at a clinic.
Frequency of Ultomiris
3,000 mg
You typically receive your Ultomiris maintenance doses every 8 weeks. After a 2-week break, you'll likely start maintaining doses[2].
"Dive into this Ultomiris dosage breakdown for more info on scheduling.## Ultomiris Side Effects
3,600 mg every 8 weeks
Grabbing Ultomiris for myasthenia gravis treatment could lead to side effects that range from mild to severe.
Ultomiris is also used to treat other health hiccups. Keep in mind that side effects could differ depending on the condition it's used for.
These are some common side effects reported with Ultomiris[1]:
- Diarrhea (sorry 'bout that)
- Upper respiratory infections, like the common cold
- Abdominal pain
- UTIs (urinary tract infections)
- Back pain
- Lightheadedness
- Mild infusion reactions, such as;
- twitchy muscles
- tingly arms or legs
These minor side effects may be temporary and could last only a couple of days to weeks[1]. But if they last longer, bug your doc or pharmacist.
Serious Side Effects of Ultomiris
While uncommon, serious side effects have been reported with Ultomiris. These include[1]:
- serious infections, including COVID-19 and pneumonia
- severe infusion reactions, including:
- skyrocketing or plummeting blood pressure
- intense shivering, chills, and fever
Ultomiris
If you experience serious side effects, shoot your doc a call immediately. If your symptoms feel critical or life-threatening, dial 911 or the local emergency number right away.
ALLERGIC REACTIONIn rare cases, Ultomiris can cause allergic reactions.
Vyvgart
In general, allergy symptoms can swing from mild to severe.
Managing Allergies
For mild allergic reaction symptoms, like a rash, holler at your doctor pronto. They may suggest treatments to help manage your symptoms. They'll also clue you in on whether you should continue taking the medication.
For severe allergic reaction symptoms, like swelling or trouble breathing, dial 911 or the local emergency number right away. These symptoms can be life-threatening and require urgent medical care. In the event you've had a severe allergic reaction to Ultomiris, your doc might suggest swapping it for another drug instead.
Form
Prepping for Ultomiris
Before getting your hands on Ultomiris, there are some crucial facts to digest[1]. The medicine may not be a good fit if you have certain medical conditions or other health factors in play. Here's a quick rundown of some of these elements.
solution for IV infusion
Boxed Warning: Lurking Meningococcal Infections
Ultomiris boasts a boxed warning about the risk of serious meningococcal infections[1]. This is the most serious warning from the FDA.
solution for IV infusion
Using Ultomiris increases the risk of serious meningococcal infections, like meningitis. These are potentially life-threatening[1]. Symptoms of a meningococcal infection include:
- sudden chills, sweats, or high fever
- severe headache, neck stiffness, or pain
- Sensitivity to light (uh-oh)
- nausea, vomiting, or confusion
- drowsiness
What to Do
Before you kick off Ultomiris treatment, your doctor will ensure you're caught up on meningococcal vaccines[1]. If not, they'll pop you with any needed shots at least 2 weeks before you start Ultomiris treatment. If your doc thinks you urgently need Ultomiris, they might have you start treatment sooner than 2 weeks after meningococcal vaccination. If this applies to you, they may scribble a prescription for antibiotics for you to take for the first 2 weeks following your initial Ultomiris infusion[1].
Dosage frequency
The risk of serious meningococcal infections applies throughout Ultomiris treatment and for at least 8 months after your last dose. Quickly pencil in your doc if you think you've got symptoms of a meningococcal infection during this window. But dial 911 or the local emergency number ASAP if your symptoms seem life-threatening.
On account of this risk, Ultomiris is only accessible under a risk evaluation and mitigation strategy (REMS) program. Part of this program requires you to lug around the Ultomiris Patient Safety Card throughout treatment and for at least 8 months after your last dose. You can learn more about the Ultomiris REMS program at the program website or by calling 1-888-765-4747.
once every 8 weeks
More Precautions
Besides the boxed warning, Ultomiris has other cautions[1].
once weekly for 4 weeks; your doctor may prescribe additional cycles based on how well Vyvgart works for your symptoms
Before receiving Ultomiris, mull over the following:
- If you hoist a current infection
- If you're expecting a baby or nursing
- If you knock back the sauce
- If you've had an allergic reaction to Ultomiris or any of its components
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Ultomiris for dealing with myasthenia gravis.
Drug class
How Does Ultomiris Stack Up Against Vyvgart?
I’ll see your Vyvgart and raise you Ultomiris, both doled out for generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) in adults who are AChR antibody positive[1]. Compare their deets below.
complement inhibitor
| | Ultomiris | Vyvgart ||---------------|-----------|---------|| Form | IV infusion | IV infusion || Dosing | once every 8 weeks | once weekly for 4 weeks, then as recommended || Drug class | complement inhibitor | neonatal Fc receptor blocker |
Unlike Vyvgart, Ultomiris is also employed to treat other ailments.
neonatal Fc receptor blocker
Your doctor or pharmacist can provide more details on how Ultomiris and Vyvgart square off.
Can I Score Home Infusions of Ultomiris?
It's plausible[2]. Your doctor might be able to pen you in for home infusions of Ultomiris. That's when a healthcare professional heads over to your gaff to administer meds.
Holler at your doc to learn more about this option and whether it's the right match for you.
The Cost of Ultomiris
How much cash will you spat out for Ultomiris hinges on a bunch of factors - including your treatment frequency, your insurance coverage, and your location[1].
Ultomiris is a brand-name biotech fix that's not duplicated by biosimilars - generic equivalents are impossible to produce[1].
A program called the Alexion OneSource CoPay Program is on tap for Ultomiris. Check out its website or dial 800-775-3464 for deets and to see if you're vibing-worthy for help.
Disclaimer: The data in this article is intended to provide general info on Ultomiris for the treatment of myasthenia gravis. However, this write-up should not stand in for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. Always discuss any medications with your doctor or another healthcare expert before deciding whether to take ‘em. The drug info contained herein is subject to change and is not all-inclusive or designed to treat every use or user. The absence of caution, warning, or other info for a given drug implies, but does not confirm, the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, and suitable for all patients and purposes.
- Ultomiris is an intravenous (IV) injection that belongs to a family of drugs known as complement inhibitors, with no generic or biosimilar alternative available.
- In managing myasthenia gravis, Ultomiris is believed to work by clamping down on the activity of a complement system protein called C5 at the neuromuscular junction (NMJ), ultimately allowing nerve signals to cannonball through to muscles, potentially improving muscle strength and alleviating fatigue.
- A boxed warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is displayed on Ultomiris, indicating the risk of serious meningococcal infections, such as meningitis, which may be life-threatening.
- Ultomiris is typically prescribed for adults with generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) and a positive test for anti-acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibodies.
- Data from certain studies suggests that Ultomiris improved the ability to handle daily activities in adults with AChR antibody-positive gMG, though it's crucial to consult the Ultomiris prescribing info for more details about these studies.
- Side effects of Ultomiris can range from mild to severe and may differ depending on the condition it's used to treat. Common side effects include diarrhea, upper respiratory infections, abdominal pain, urinary tract infections, back pain, lightheadedness, and minor infusion reactions.
- In the treatment of myasthenia gravis, Ultomiris is administered as a solution for IV infusion, and treatment usually begins with a loading dose followed by a maintenance dose every 8 weeks. The dosage recommendations for Ultomiris are based on the patient's body weight in kilograms.
