What are the side effects of lemtrada?

How common are the side effects of Lemtrada?

Lemtrada (alemtuzumab) carries a high risk of serious side effects that occur in most patients. Serious autoimmune conditions develop in about 40% of people who receive the course of treatment, while serious infections occur in 3% to 5%. Mild to moderate reactions during or after infusions occur in more than 90% of patients.

What infections are most likely after Lemtrada?

Serious infections such as listeria, cytomegalovirus, tuberculosis, and fungal infections can develop months or years after treatment. Patients must follow strict food safety rules to avoid listeria, including avoiding soft cheeses and deli meats. Patients also need active tuberculosis screening before treatment and monthly blood tests for cytomegalovirus.

What autoimmune diseases can Lemtrada trigger?

Lemtrada triggers autoimmune thyroid disease in 30% to 40% of patients, including hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Other serious conditions include immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) and anti-glomerular basement membrane disease affecting the kidneys. Doctors monitor patients with monthly blood and urine tests for 48 months after treatment.

How does Lemtrada compare with other MS drugs in terms of side effects?

Lemtrada has a higher risk of serious autoimmune and immune-mediated diseases than most other disease-modifying therapies for multiple sclerosis. Compared with other MS drugs, it requires more intensive monitoring and stricter patient commitment to the four-year follow-up plan. The drug is usually reserved for patients who have already failed other therapies.

What happens if a patient misses follow-up blood tests?

Missed monitoring puts patients at higher risk for undetected autoimmune diseases that can lead to bleeding disorders or kidney failure. The manufacturer requires commitment to the 48-month monitoring schedule before dispensing the drug. The company also recommends limiting exposure to people with infections during the 4-year time window.

When does Lemtrada's exclusivity expire?

Lemtrada is still under patent protection. Its basic U.S. patent expires in 2024, but secondary patents may extend exclusivity through 2025 or 2026.