Daclizumab

Generic Name : Daclizumab

TradeName : Zenapax

Other Name : Monoclonal Antibody, IL-2 Receptor blockers

Why it is prescribed (Indications) : Daclizumab is used to prevent kidney transplant rejection. It is usually used as part of a treatment regimen including other medications.

When it is not to be taken (Contraindications) : There may be an increased risk of infection with the use of daclizumab. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop signs of infection such as fever or chills; sore throat, coughing, congestion or other signs of infection; redness, pain, or swelling of a skin wound; or burning or difficult urination. Treatment with an immunosuppressant such as daclizumab may increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer (e.g., lymphoma). Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medication. Daclizumab should only be prescribed by a doctor experienced in immunosuppressive therapy and the management of organ transplant patients.

When it is to be taken : The humanized monoclonal antibody daclizumab is an immunosuppressive agent that reduces acute rejection in renal transplant recipients.

Missed a Dose? :
Contact your doctor if you miss a dose of daclizumab.

How it should be taken : Daclizumab is administered as an intravenous injection. In most cases, your healthcare provider will administer daclizumab in a hospital or clinic setting. The first dose of daclizumab is usually administered within 24 hours of the kidney transplant. Four additional doses are then given at 14 day intervals following transplantation. When mixing the solution for injection, the bag should be gently inverted to ensure mixing. Do not shake the mixture. After mixing the solution for injection, it should be used within 4 hours. If the mixture cannot be used within 4 hours, it should be refrigerated between 36 and 46 degrees Fahrenheit (2 and 8 degrees Celsius) for up to 24 hours. If it is not used within 24 hours, it must be discarded. Do not use any solution that is discolored or that contains particles in it. Your doctor may ask you to do blood tests or other medical evaluations during treatment with daclizumab to monitor progress and side effects.

Special Instruction :
Daclizumab can lower the activity of the immune system making you susceptible to infections. Avoid contact with people who have colds, the flu, or other contagious illnesses. Talk to your doctor before receiving any vaccines during treatment with daclizumab. Some vaccines may not be effective, or may be harmful, if received during treatment with daclizumab. In addition, avoiding close contact with people who have recently been vaccinated with a "live" vaccine. Tell your doctor and dentist that you are using this medication before having surgery and before starting any other medicines.

Side Effects :
There may be an increased risk of infection with the use of daclizumab. If you experience a serious allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives) to daclizumab, seek emergency medical attention. Other, less serious side effects may also occur. Continue to use daclizumab and notify your doctor if you experience • upset stomach, nausea, or vomiting; • diarrhea or constipation; • tremor or dizziness; • headache; or • Swelling of the hands, feet or legs. Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

Other Precautions :
Children Safety and efficacy not established in children younger than 11 month of age. Elderly Use with caution. Hypersensitivity Anaphylactic reactions can occur. Immune system It is not known if there will be a long-term effect on the ability of the immune system to respond to antigens first encountered during daclizumab-induced immunosuppression.

Drug Interactions :
The following medications have been administered in clinical trials in renal allograft patients with daclizumab with no incremental increase in adverse reactions: cyclosporine, mycophenolate mofetil, ganciclovir, acyclovir, azathioprine, and corticosteroids. Very limited experience exists with the use of daclizumab concomitantly with tacrolimus, muromonab-cd3, antithymocyte globulin, and antilymphocyte globulin. Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with daclizumab. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.

Storage Conditions :
Administer infusion solution within 4 h of preparation or within 24 h if stored in refrigerator. Store unopened vials in refrigerator (36° to 46°F). Do not freeze or shake. Protect from direct light. Diluted infusion solution is stable for 4 h at room temperature or for 24 h if refrigerated.