Dosage Information for Spinraza: Details on form, strength, administration, and additional facts
Spinraza, a revolutionary drug for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), is now approved for use in children and adults of all ages. This antisense oligonucleotide drug, which is not available in a generic version, comes in a single strength of 2.4 mg per 1 mL of solution.
The typical recommended dosage for Spinraza is 12 milligrams (mg) per dose, with no recommended dosage ranges. This dosage is the same for both adults and children with SMA.
The administration schedule begins with four loading doses: the first three loading doses are given 14 days apart, and the fourth loading dose is given 30 days after the third dose. After the loading phase, a maintenance dose of 12 mg is given once every 4 months (approximately three times per year).
This schedule applies generally to both adults and children with SMA and is administered intrathecally (into the spinal canal) under medical supervision specialized in SMA management. If a maintenance dose is missed, specific catch-up dosing schedules apply depending on how long since the last dose, but the overall plan is to return to the regular maintenance every 4 months after catch-up doses.
Before starting Spinraza, a discussion about the treatment plan will take place with the doctor. It's important to remember that missed Spinraza appointments should be rescheduled as soon as possible.
Spinraza is meant to be used as a long-term treatment. Each vial of Spinraza contains 12 mg in 5 mL. The liquid is allowed to warm to room temperature before administration. The Spinraza injection is administered into the fluid of the spine by a healthcare professional, taking 1-3 minutes to complete.
Your doctor will determine the best dosage for you based on your individual needs. It's worth noting that Spinraza starts to work after the first dose, but its effects may not be felt in the body immediately. The dosage of Spinraza prescribed will be individualized based on the patient's needs.
For more information about your specific dosage, consult your doctor. It's crucial to follow the prescribed schedule for optimal results. If a missed dose is not rescheduled promptly, parts or all of the loading-dose regimen may need to be restarted.
[References] [1] Roche. (2016). Spinraza (nusinersen) - Prescribing Information. Retrieved from https://www.roche.com/media/releases/medical_research/ctd/spinal-muscular-atrophy/nusinersen-prescribing-information-us.pdf [4] Food and Drug Administration. (2016). FDA approves Spinraza for spinal muscular atrophy. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-spinraza-spinal-muscular-atrophy [5] Muscular Dystrophy Association. (2021). Spinraza. Retrieved from https://www.mda.org/disease/spinal-muscular-atrophy/treatment/spinraza
- The neurological disorder, spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), now has a groundbreaking treatment in the form of the drug Spinraza, which is approved for use in children and adults alike.
- This drug, an antisense oligonucleotide, is administered intrathecally (into the spinal canal) under medical supervision specialized in SMA management.
- The recommended dosage for Spinraza is 12 milligrams (mg) per dose, with specific therapies and treatments schedules designed for both adults and children with SMA.
- It's crucial for patients to follow the prescribed schedule as closely as possible, and when receiving Spinraza, it's essential to remember that a discussion about the treatment plan will take place with the doctor.
