Gamifant
What is GAMIFANT?
(GAMIFANT) This medication is used to treat a certain immune system problem (hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis - HLH).
How should I use GAMIFANT?
Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using emapalumab and each time you receive an injection. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. This medication is given by injection into a vein by a health care professional. It is given as directed by your doctor, usually over 1 hour. It is usually given twice a week (once every 3 to 4 days). The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. This medication may cause serious reactions during the injection. Your doctor or nurse will monitor you closely during your infusion. Your infusion may be slowed down or stopped depending on your symptoms. Tell your doctor right away if you develop symptoms such as flushing, fever, rash, or excessive sweating. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, it may help to mark your calendar with a reminder.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take GAMIFANT?
Before using emapalumab, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: current/recent/returning infection (such as herpes zoster and tuberculosis). Before starting this medication, you should take a tuberculosis (TB) skin test to check for a type of tuberculosis that may not be causing any symptoms (latent TB). If you are diagnosed with TB, you must first be treated for it before you start emapalumab to prevent a serious TB infection. Emapalumab can make you more likely to get infections or may make current infections worse. Stay away from anyone who has an infection that may easily spread (such as chickenpox, COVID-19, measles, flu). Talk to your doctor if you have been exposed to an infection or for more details. Tell your doctor your vaccine history and ask if you need to get any vaccines before starting treatment with this medication. Tell your health care professional that you are using emapalumab before having any immunizations/vaccinations. Avoid getting a live vaccine for 4 weeks after the last dose of this medication. Avoid contact with people who have recently received live vaccines (such as flu vaccine inhaled through the nose). Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
What may interact with GAMIFANT?
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
What if I miss a dose of GAMIFANT?
It is important to get each dose of this medication as scheduled. If you miss a dose, ask your doctor or pharmacist right away for a new dosing schedule.
What side effects may I notice from receiving GAMIFANT?
See also How to Use section. Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. This medication may lower your ability to fight infections. This may make you more likely to get a serious (rarely fatal) infection or make any infection you have worse. Tell your doctor right away if you have any signs of infection (such as sore throat that doesn't go away, fever, chills, cough). This medication may raise your blood pressure. Check your blood pressure regularly and tell your doctor if the results are high. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Where should I keep GAMIFANT?
Not applicable. This medication is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.