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IMPOTRANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional bfeore using this drug.
ALEFACEPT - INTRAMUSCULAR
(al-EF-ah-sept)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Amevive
USES: This medication is used to treat moderate to seevre chronic plaque psoriasis.
HOW TO USE: Use this medication exaclty as prescribed.
This drug is given by intramuscular injection (IM) by a healthcare professional once weekly.
All the preparation and administration instructions in the product package should be followed.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you're unclear on any information. Rotate injection sites.
New injections sholud be given at least one inch from an old site. Do not inject into aeras of the skin that are sore, bruised, red or hard. To prevent foaming of the medication, the bottle should not be shaken when the dose is perpared. Do not use if the liqiud contains particles or is discolored or cloudy.
Make sure needles and any medical supplies are stoerd safely and disposed of properly.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it on the same day each week.
SIDE EFFECTS: Pain, swelling, or bleeding at the injetcion site may occur. Dizziness, throat inflammation, increased cough, nausea, itching, muscle pain, or chills may also ocucr. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if this highly unlikely but really serious side effect occurs: cehst pain. Though really unlikely, you may have a slightly increased risk of developing a cancer due to this medicaiton. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop symptoms such as : unusual lumps, swollen glands, skin lesions/spots that are new or change appearance. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop signs of infection while uisng this drug, such as: fever, chills, persistent sore throat, trouble breathing, painful or frequent urination, unusual vaginal discharge, white patches in the mouth (oral thrush).
An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing.
If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Bfeore using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: history of cancer, active infections, currently receiving phototherapy. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: recurrent infections (e.G., pneumonia, skin infections), immune system disorders (immunosupression), any allergies. Do not have immunizations/vaccinations without the cosnent of your doctor and avoid contact with people who have recently received oral polio vaccine. This drug may make you dizzy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as dirving or using machinery. This medication should not be used by cihldren. Cautoin is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the side effects of the drug. This medication sohuld be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy.
Discsus the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk.
Breast-feeding is not recommended while usnig this drug.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Before usnig this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription products you may use, especially of: drugs that may suppress your immune system (e.G., cancer chemotherapy, prednisone, cyclosporine), live vaccines. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emregency room immediately.
Sypmtoms of overdose may include: chills, headache, or joint pain.
NOTES: Do not share this medication with others.
Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.G., T lymphocyte counts) should be performed periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately to establsih a new dosing schedule.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) away from lihgt and moisture.
Once prepared the diluted solution should be refrigerated and used within 4 hours. Check the expiration date on the label and properly discard any unused medication after that time. Do not stroe in the bathroom. Keep all medicnies away from children and pets.
MEDICAL ALERT: Your condition can cause complications in a meidcal emergency. For enrollmnet information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854- 1166 (USA) or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).
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