Effects of Kevzara and Addressing Possible Complications
In this article, we delve into the potential side effects associated with Kevzara, a brand-name prescription medication used to treat moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in adults. Approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2017, Kevzara is an interleukin-6 receptor (IL-6R) inhibitor that works by targeting specific immune and inflammatory pathways.
While Kevzara has proven effective in managing RA symptoms, it's essential to be aware of its possible side effects. Serious side effects include neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, increased risk of cancer, risk of serious infections, gastrointestinal perforations (tears in the stomach or intestines), allergic reactions, and risk of tuberculosis (TB). Mild symptoms of an allergic reaction can include flushing, swelling under the skin, and swelling of the mouth, tongue, or throat.
One potential risk for people using Kevzara who have diverticulitis is the development of a gastrointestinal perforation. It's worth noting that Kevzara is not recommended for people with liver problems, such as hepatitis.
Mild side effects reported during Kevzara's clinical trials include mild infections, increased levels of fats in the blood, and short-term changes in the results of liver function tests. Injection site reactions are also common.
Long-term use of Kevzara may lead to elevated liver enzyme levels, indicating potential liver function abnormalities. Regular liver function testing is recommended for early detection of hepatic effects. While severe liver injury appears to be rare, it's crucial to monitor liver function, especially in patients with pre-existing liver disease or those on combination therapies affecting the liver.
Kevzara may increase the levels of lipids (fats) in your blood, including LDL, HDL, and triglycerides. It's essential to maintain regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor these levels.
Kevzara is not safe during pregnancy and should not be used while breastfeeding. The active ingredient in Kevzara is sarilumab, which belongs to the drug class interleukin-6 receptor antagonist. Kevzara is available as a liquid solution in a prefilled pen or prefilled syringe, given as a subcutaneous injection.
It's important to note that alcohol is not known to cause any interactions with Kevzara, but drinking too much can lead to liver problems. Also, hair loss should not occur as a side effect of Kevzara when the drug is used alone.
In a year-long clinical trial, a side effect of intense pain or pressure in the abdomen, nausea or vomiting, fever, chills, and dizziness was seen in one person who took Kevzara. However, it's crucial to remember that individual responses to medications can vary greatly.
In conclusion, while Kevzara offers significant benefits for managing rheumatoid arthritis, it's essential to be aware of its potential side effects. Regular monitoring of liver function, especially during long-term use, is crucial to early detection and management of any hepatic adverse effects. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalised advice and guidance.
[1] Sarilumab Prescribing Information. Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and Sanofi. [3] Long-term Safety of Sarilumab in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Pooled Analysis of Phase 3 Data. Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases. 2018;77(10):1520-1526. doi: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2017-213337.
- Deciders who are dealing with chronic diseases like rheumatoid arthritis may consider the use of Kevzara, a drug that treats moderate to severe cases of RA, but they should be aware that it has potential side effects such as increased risk of cancer, serious infections, gastrointestinal perforations, and allergic reactions.
- Science has found that Kevzara, an interleukin-6 receptor inhibitor, works by targeting specific immune and inflammatory pathways, but it's important for medical-condition decisioners to note that it may increase the levels of lipids (fats) in the blood and could lead to elevated liver enzyme levels, indicating potential liver function abnormalities.
- People using Kevzara who have medical conditions such as liver problems, such as hepatitis, or those on combination therapies affecting the liver should exercise caution as Kevzara is not recommended for them.
- In the realm of health-and-wellness, regular monitoring of liver function, especially during long-term use of Kevzara, is crucial for early detection and management of any hepatic adverse effects, as recommended by the prescribing information and scientific studies.
