Forms, Strengths, and Administration of Ultomiris: A Comprehensive Guide
Ultomiris (ravulizumab-cwvz), a biologic drug that belongs to the complement inhibitors class, is used to treat several serious conditions in adults and children. The drug is administered intravenously and its dosing schedule varies slightly by condition but generally involves an initial loading dose followed by maintenance infusions every 8 weeks.
For atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) and paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) in adults, the maintenance dose is about 3000 mg IV every 8 weeks, starting 2 weeks after the initial loading dose. For children with aHUS or PNH, the dosing is weight-based, with specifics not detailed but following loading and maintenance phases similar to adults, adjusted per pediatric dosing guidelines by the prescribing physician.
In the case of generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG), the dosing is also infusions every 8 weeks after an initial loading dose, with approximately 6-7 infusions per year. For neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), although exact dose amounts are not detailed, the treatment requires completion of meningococcal vaccination at least 2 weeks before the first dose, implying a protocol similar to other indications with infusions every 8 weeks.
The dosage for NMOSD is based on body weight. For body weight between 10 kg to less than 20 kg, the loading dose is 600 mg, followed by 600 mg every 4 weeks maintenance. For body weight between 20 kg to less than 30 kg, the loading dose is 900 mg, followed by 2,100 mg every 8 weeks maintenance. For body weight between 30 kg to less than 40 kg, the loading dose is 1,200 mg, followed by 2,700 mg every 8 weeks maintenance. For body weight between 40 kg to less than 60 kg, the loading dose is 2,400 mg, followed by 3,000 mg every 8 weeks maintenance. For body weight 60 kg or more, the loading dose is 2,700 mg, followed by 3,300 mg every 8 weeks maintenance.
It's important to note that all patients receiving Ultomiris must have up-to-date meningococcal vaccines at least 2 weeks before the first infusion due to infection risk related to complement inhibition. Additionally, sometimes, you may need to get an additional dose of Ultomiris if you have any blood infusions or certain procedures.
Ultomiris comes as a solution in a single-dose vial and is only available in three strengths: 300 milligrams (mg)/30 milliliters (mL), 300 mg/3 mL, and 1,100 mg/11 mL. The drug is meant to be used as a long-term treatment and it's crucial that you don't receive more Ultomiris than your doctor prescribes. If you believe you've received too much Ultomiris, call your doctor right away.
Ultomiris is not available in a biosimilar version and is not approved to treat gMG or NMOSD in children. The drug is administered as an intravenous (IV) infusion by a healthcare professional. The dosage for atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome, paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, generalized myasthenia gravis, and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder is determined by a doctor using a dosage calculator based on body weight.
In summary, Ultomiris dosing schedules vary slightly by condition but generally involve an initial loading dose followed by maintenance infusions every 8 weeks. The dosage for aHUS or PNH in children and adults is weight-based, while for NMOSD, the dosage is based on body weight. Always consult with your healthcare provider for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding your specific treatment plan.
- Ultomiris, a drug used for treating various medical conditions, is administered intravenously and requires up-to-date meningococcal vaccines before the first infusion.
- For adults with atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) or paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH), the maintenance dose of Ultimaris is about 3000 mg IV every 8 weeks.
- In the case of generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) or neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), the dosing of Ultimaris is also infusions every 8 weeks, but the dosage for NMOSD is based on body weight.
- Ultomiris comes as a solution in a single-dose vial and is only available in three strengths, making it essential to adhere to the prescribed dosage to avoid overdose.
- Ultomiris is not approved for the treatment of gMG or NMOSD in children, and its dosage for aHUS or PNH in children is weight-based, determined by a physician using a dosage calculator.
