What is Ibalizumab?
Ibalizumab is an antiviral drug prescribed to prevent proliferation of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) from the body which can trigger development of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). However, this medicine does not treat HIV or AIDS. This drug is attempted specifically when other treatments have remained unsuccessful. It may also be utilized for purposes not mentioned in this concise clinical guide.
What are the common conditions in which Ibalizumab prescribed?
This medication is typically prescribed to limit the advancement of HIV in a person.
Although it is not a counter drug to treat AIDS or HIV.
How should I take Ibalizumab?
The medicine is administered as an intravenous injection. This infusion will be provided to you by your healthcare practitioners once in every 2 weeks. The procedure of infusing the drug may last up to as minimum as 15 minutes to complete. HIV is generally doctored with a combination of medications.
Obey the instructions closely as mentioned on the medicine and as suggested by your doctor. Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Do not tamper you doses or dosing time-table except with your medic’s advice. A person harbouring HIV should be continually monitored and attended by a doctor.
Typical Adult Dose for HIV Infection
Loading dosage: 2000 mg doses infused intravenously once
Maintenance dosage: 800 mg IV doses infused intravenously every 2 weeks
When should you not take Ibalizumab?
Avoid receiving ibalizumab injection if you are sensitive to it. Apprise your doctor beforehand about all the medicines you take, and any medical conditions or allergies you suffer from. Acquaint your doctor if you are pregnant and take your medicines precisely as suggested. This is because HIV may get transmitted to the infant during pregnancy if not contained timely. If you are expectant, your name may be recorded on a pregnancy registry to trace the results of medicine on the infant.
It may be detrimental to breast-feed while they have HIV or AIDS. Even though the baby is born HIV free, it is expected that this virus may affect the child through breast-milk. Inquire from your doctor about any other elated risk factors. Ibalizumab may distress your immune system. If you observe symptoms of new infection, such as fever, night sweating, inflamed glands, cough, diarrhoea, or weight loss.
What are the possible side effects of Ibalizumab?
If you experience symptoms of allergic response to the medication such as hives, cough, chest pain, shallow breath, inflammation in your face or throat, seek immediate medical attention.
Since this medication impacts the immunity of a person therefore, certain side effects may possibly occur [even weeks or months-long after you received this infusion.
Inform your doctor if you experience:
- Symptoms of a new infection: fever, night sweating, swollen glands, cold sores, cough, breathlessness, diarrhea, loss of weight;
- Problematic speech or swallowing, issues with balance or eye movement, general weakness or tingly sensation; or
- inflammation in your neck or throat (enlarged thyroid), menstrual irregularity, impotence.
Common side effects may comprise
- nausea, diarrhea;
- feeling light- headed; or
- rash.
However, these all are not the only possible side- effects, as it may show in other symptoms as well. Ask your doctor for clinical guidance about its side effects.
What to do if I miss the dose?
Talk to your doctor for directions in case you miss the scheduled slot for your Ibalizumab dose.
Common Drug Interaction with Ibalizumab
Other medications may interact with this medicine, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. It is imperative that you disclose to your doctor regarding your current medicinal course and any medicine that you started or stopped using.
Bottom Line
Ibalizumab is a medicine recommended controlling the progress of HIV. This drug should not be used without guidance of you physician and the instruction while taking the medicine are to be followed precisely. If you experience any adverse reactions or allergic responses, immediately see your doctor.
Further Reading:
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