This medication is used along with other medications to
control and prevent symptoms (such as wheezing and shortness of breath)
caused by asthma. Controlling symptoms of asthma helps you do your normal
activities and decreases time lost from work or school. Reslizumab belongs
to a class of drugs known as monoclonal antibodies. It works by reducing
swelling (inflammation) of the airways in the lungs to make breathing
easier.
This medication must be used regularly to be effective.
It does not work right away and should not be used to relieve sudden asthma
attacks or breathing problems. If an asthma attack occurs, use your
quick-relief inhaler as prescribed.
Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from
your pharmacist before you start using reslizumab and each time you get a
refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or
pharmacist.
This medication is given by injection into a vein as
directed by your doctor, usually once every 4 weeks. It is given by a
health care professional, usually over 20 to 50 minutes. The dosage is
based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
If you are also using a corticosteroid medication, you
should not stop using it unless directed by your doctor. Your condition may
worsen when the drug is suddenly stopped. If you suddenly stop using the
corticosteroid medication, you may also have withdrawal symptoms (such as
weakness, weight loss, nausea, muscle pain, headache, tiredness,
dizziness). To help prevent withdrawal, your doctor may slowly lower the
dose of your corticosteroid medication after you begin using reslizumab.
Tell your doctor or pharmacist right away if you have
withdrawal.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit
from it. To help you remember, mark your calendar with a
reminder.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better
or if it gets worse.
See also Warning section.
Neck or throat pain may occur. If either of these
effects lasts or gets worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist
promptly.
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.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side
effects, including:
- muscle ache/pain/spasms/weakness
Rarely, this medication may increase the risk of
developing cancer. Ask your doctor for details.
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.
Before using reslizumab, 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:
- infection due to a parasite
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.
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.
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such
as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison
control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada
residents can call 1-844-764-7669.
Keep all medical and lab appointments.
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.
Not applicable. This medication is given in a hospital
or clinic or doctor's office and will not be stored at
home.