What is Tysabri, and what is it used for?
Tysabri (generic name: natalizumab) is a prescription medicine given as an infusion used to treat certain people with:
- Relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Crohn’s disease (moderate to severe cases in adults who have had an inadequate response to other treatments) [1]
How does Tysabri work?
Tysabri is a monoclonal antibody. It works by blocking a molecule involved in moving immune cells from the bloodstream into tissues. That helps reduce inflammation thought to drive MS relapses and Crohn’s disease flares [1].
How is Tysabri given, and how often?
Tysabri is administered by intravenous infusion in a healthcare setting. The dosing schedule is based on the condition being treated [1].
What are the key risks and side effects people worry about?
The most discussed serious risk is progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a rare brain infection. The risk of PML increases with certain factors, including prior exposure to JC virus and longer treatment duration [1].
Other side effects can occur and may include infusion-related reactions and infections, depending on the person and their medical history [1].
Who should be careful using Tysabri?
Tysabri is typically considered only for people who meet specific criteria, and clinicians weigh benefits against risks such as PML. Factors like immune status and prior infection history can affect suitability [1].
How do doctors monitor patients on Tysabri?
Monitoring commonly includes screening for PML risk factors, including testing related to JC virus status, along with ongoing clinical monitoring for symptoms that could suggest infection or neurological problems [1].
Tysabri vs other MS treatments: what’s different?
Tysabri is used for relapsing MS and works by targeting immune-cell trafficking. Some other MS therapies instead suppress or modulate the immune system in different ways. Choice depends on disease activity, risk tolerance, and patient-specific factors such as prior treatment response and PML risk [1].
What happens if Tysabri is stopped?
Stopping Tysabri can lead to return of disease activity in some people. Clinicians often plan transitions carefully when discontinuing to reduce the chance of a flare or rebound activity, depending on the individual’s situation [1].
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Sources
- https://www.tysabri.com/