Brand name: Tysabri.
Generic name: Natalizumab.
Who takes it?:
Adults with Very Active Relapsing Remitting MS: 2 or more relapses in a year and an increase in lesions on a MRI.
Tysabri reduces relapses by up to 70%, studies show that lesions on a scan are also reduced and that disability progression is delayed.
If clinically indicated, Tysabri can continue though pregnancy.
How is it given?:
Tysabri is given at the QE every 4-6 weeks by as an intravenous infusion.
Be prepared to be at the QE for 3 hours.
Biogen is launching a sub-cutaneous from of tysabri, which is more convenient and quicker to administer.
Who Monitors it?:
Bloods are obtained prior to treatment. JC virus bloods will be organised every 6 months. You will be informed when they are due, we will ask you either to attend your Gp practice or the MS Nurse home phlebotomy service will collect them. The MS Nurse phlebotomy service, can come to your home environment or after negotiation with your employer, at your work place.
At each MS Nurse appointment you will be asked about your Tysabri:
- Have any side effects.
- Had any infections.
Side Effects:
- UTIs.
- Headache.
- Dizziness.
- Temperature
- Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), please discuss this with your MS Team
Vaccine:
Whilst on Tysabri we advice that you do not have Live or Live-attenuated vaccines, please call us for further advice.
https://www.mssociety.org.uk/care-and-support/health-and-social-care/health-care/flu-jabs
Support: