WARNING

While Daclizumab injection can be effective in treating relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS), it’s essential to be aware of potential risks associated with its use. Here’s a brief overview of some risks:

• Increased Risk of Infections: Daclizumab suppresses the immune system, which can raise the risk of infections. This includes common infections like colds, as well as more serious infections. It’s crucial to take precautions to avoid exposure to infectious agents.
• Liver Function Changes: Daclizumab can affect liver function, leading to elevated liver enzyme levels. Regular monitoring of liver function may be necessary during treatment.
• Injection Site Reactions: Pain, redness, swelling, or itching at the injection site are common side effects of Daclizumab injection. These reactions are usually mild and temporary.
• Allergic Reactions: While rare, allergic reactions to Daclizumab can occur. Symptoms may include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience signs of an allergic reaction.
• Other Potential Side Effects: Other less common side effects may include headache, fatigue, nausea, depression, and skin reactions.

It’s essential to discuss any concerns or questions you have about the risks and benefits of Daclizumab with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized guidance based on your individual medical history and condition. Additionally, closely following your doctor’s instructions and attending regular follow-up appointments can help minimize risks and maximize the benefits of treatment.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Daclizumab Injection is typically prescribed to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) in adults. It is often used in cases where other treatments have not been effective or tolerated well. Daclizumab works by targeting specific cells in the immune system, helping to reduce inflammation and prevent damage to the nerves in the brain and spinal cord.

How should this medicine be used?

Daclizumab injection is typically administered as a subcutaneous injection under the skin. The dosage and frequency of administration will be determined by your healthcare provider based on your individual condition and response to treatment.

Here’s a general guideline on how Daclizumab injection is commonly used:

• Preparation: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Gather all necessary supplies, including the vial of Daclizumab, syringe, alcohol swab, and a clean, dry surface.
• Preparation of the Injection Site: Choose an injection site as directed by your healthcare provider. Common sites include the abdomen, thighs, or upper arms. Clean the chosen site with an alcohol swab and allow it to air dry.
• Drawing Up the Medication: Remove the cap from the vial of Daclizumab and wipe the rubber stopper with an alcohol swab. Use a syringe to withdraw the prescribed dosage of medication from the vial. Ensure that you have the correct dosage as instructed by your healthcare provider.
• Administering the Injection: Pinch a fold of skin at the cleaned injection site. Insert the needle at a 45 to 90-degree angle, depending on the thickness of the skin and the length of the needle. Slowly push the plunger to inject the medication.
• Removing the Needle and Disposal: Once the medication has been injected, withdraw the needle gently and apply pressure to the injection site with a clean cotton ball or gauze pad. Dispose of the syringe and needle in a puncture-resistant container as per local regulations.
• Post-Injection Care: Massage the injection site gently to help disperse the medication. Do not rub the area vigorously. Record the date, time, dosage, and injection site in a journal or medication log as advised by your healthcare provider.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully when using Daclizumab injection. If you have any questions or concerns about the administration process, don’t hesitate to consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.

Other uses for this medicine

While Daclizumab is primarily indicated for MS, there may be off-label uses or investigational uses being explored by healthcare providers or researchers. However, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider regarding any potential off-label uses of Daclizumab and to follow their guidance.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for using Daclizumab injection, here are some important points to consider:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you are allergic to Daclizumab or any other medications before starting treatment. Allergic reactions to Daclizumab are rare but can occur.
• Infections: Daclizumab can suppress the immune system, which may increase the risk of infections. Inform your doctor if you have any signs of infection, such as fever, chills, cough, or sore throat. Avoid close contact with individuals who have contagious illnesses.
• Liver Function: Daclizumab can affect liver function. Your healthcare provider may monitor your liver function regularly during treatment. Inform your doctor if you have a history of liver disease or if you experience symptoms such as abdominal pain, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), or unusual fatigue.
• Other Medical Conditions: Inform your healthcare provider about any other medical conditions you have, especially if you have a history of certain infections, liver disease, or any other significant medical issues.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding before starting treatment with Daclizumab. The effects of Daclizumab on pregnancy and breastfeeding are not well studied, and your doctor will weigh the potential risks and benefits before recommending its use during these periods.
• Vaccinations: Avoid live vaccines while receiving treatment with Daclizumab, as the medication can weaken the immune system’s response to vaccines. Discuss with your healthcare provider about appropriate vaccination schedules.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance regarding the use of Daclizumab injection, including any special precautions or monitoring requirements based on your individual medical history and condition.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding special dietary instructions for Daclizumab injection, there are no specific dietary restrictions associated with its use. However, maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet can support overall health and immune function, which may be particularly important when taking medications that suppress the immune system.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Daclizumab injection, contact your healthcare provider for guidance. Depending on the timing and frequency of your doses, your doctor may recommend taking the missed dose as soon as possible or adjusting your dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed dose unless instructed to do so by your doctor.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Daclizumab injection, like any medication, can cause side effects. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary from person to person. Some common side effects of Daclizumab injection include:

• Injection Site Reactions: Pain, redness, swelling, or itching at the injection site are common side effects. These symptoms are usually mild and temporary.
• Infections: Daclizumab suppresses the immune system, which can increase the risk of infections. Common infections may include upper respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, and sinusitis.
• Liver Function Changes: Daclizumab can affect liver function, leading to abnormal liver enzyme levels. Your healthcare provider may monitor your liver function through blood tests during treatment.
• Allergic Reactions: While rare, allergic reactions to Daclizumab can occur. Symptoms may include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience signs of an allergic reaction.
• Headache: Headaches are a common side effect reported by some individuals receiving Daclizumab injection.
• Fatigue: Feelings of tiredness or fatigue may occur during treatment with Daclizumab.
• Nausea: Some individuals may experience nausea as a side effect of Daclizumab injection.
• Depression: In some cases, Daclizumab has been associated with mood changes, including symptoms of depression.
• Other Side Effects: Other less common side effects may include fever, back pain, joint pain, diarrhea, and skin reactions.

It’s essential to discuss any side effects you experience with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on managing side effects and determine whether any adjustments to your treatment plan are necessary. Additionally, if you experience severe or concerning side effects, seek medical attention promptly.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal:

Storage:

• Store Daclizumab injection vials in the refrigerator at a temperature between 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze.
• Protect the vials from light by storing them in the original carton until ready for use.
• Do not shake the vials vigorously. Gently swirl or invert them to mix the solution if necessary.

Disposal:

• Dispose of used needles and syringes in a puncture-resistant container. Follow local regulations for proper disposal of medical waste.
• Unused or expired Daclizumab injection vials should be disposed of according to local regulations. Consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance on proper disposal methods.

In case of emergency/overdose

• In case of an emergency or overdose, contact your healthcare provider, local poison control center, or emergency room immediately.
• Symptoms of overdose with Daclizumab are not well documented, but if you suspect you have received too much medication, seek medical attention promptly.

What other information should I know?

• Keep all appointments for regular follow-up visits with your healthcare provider while receiving Daclizumab injection. Your doctor will monitor your response to treatment and check for any potential side effects or complications.
• Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care that you are receiving treatment with Daclizumab injection. This includes doctors, nurses, dentists, and pharmacists.
• It’s essential to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully regarding the dosage and schedule for using Daclizumab injection. Do not alter your dosage or stop treatment without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Report any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor promptly, including signs of infection, changes in mood or behavior, or any other unexpected reactions.
• If you have any questions or concerns about Daclizumab injection or your treatment plan, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized guidance and support throughout your treatment journey.

By following these guidelines and staying informed about your medication, you can ensure safe and effective use of Daclizumab injection as part of your treatment for multiple sclerosis.