Why is this medication prescribed?

Avacopan is primarily prescribed for the treatment of certain types of vasculitis, such as granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) and microscopic polyangiitis (MPA). These are rare autoimmune diseases that cause inflammation of blood vessels and can lead to damage in various organs.

How should this medicine be used?

How to Use Avacopan:

• Dosage: The typical dose of Avacopan is 30 mg taken twice a day. Your healthcare provider will determine the exact dosage and duration based on your specific condition and response to the medication.
• Administration: Avacopan is usually taken orally in the form of tablets. It should be swallowed whole with water, and you should not crush, chew, or break the tablets.
• Consistency: Take Avacopan at the same times each day to help remember your doses and maintain even levels of the medication in your body.
• Food: It can be taken with or without food.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and consult them if you have any questions or concerns about taking Avacopan.

Other uses for this medicine

While Avacopan is primarily used for treating certain types of vasculitis, research is ongoing into its potential use for other conditions. Currently, it’s being investigated for other autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, but its approved indications are limited to vasculitis.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Avacopan:

• Infection Risk: Avacopan can affect your immune system, potentially increasing your risk of infections. Be vigilant for signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or sore throat, and contact your healthcare provider if these occur.
• Liver Function: Regular monitoring of liver function is important, as Avacopan may affect liver enzymes. Report any symptoms of liver problems, such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, or persistent nausea.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, as the safety of Avacopan during these times is not fully established.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to avoid potential interactions.
• Medical Conditions: Let your healthcare provider know if you have any other medical conditions, particularly related to the immune system, liver, or kidneys.
• Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments and blood tests may be required to monitor your response to the medication and any potential side effects.

Always follow the guidance of your healthcare provider regarding these precautions.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary instructions for Avacopan, so it can be taken with or without food.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of Avacopan, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Avacopan, a medication used to treat certain autoimmune conditions like ANCA-associated vasculitis, can cause a range of side effects. Here are some of the potential side effects:

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea
• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Upper respiratory tract infections

Serious Side Effects:

• Liver Problems: Symptoms may include yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, fatigue, loss of appetite, or abdominal pain.
• Elevated Blood Pressure: Increased blood pressure that may require monitoring or adjustment of antihypertensive medications.
• Serious Infections: Increased risk of infections such as pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and others. Signs can include fever, chills, cough, or difficulty breathing.
• Hypersensitivity Reactions: Allergic reactions such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
• Kidney Problems: Including worsening of kidney function, especially in patients with existing kidney disease.
• Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas, which may cause severe abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting.
• Neutropenia: A decrease in the number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell that is important for fighting infections.

If you experience any severe or unusual symptoms while taking Avacopan, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly.

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

Storage of Avacopan:

• Keep at Room Temperature: Store Avacopan at room temperature, away from moisture and heat (typically between 68°F to 77°F or 20°C to 25°C).
• Keep it in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children and pets.
• Avoid Light: Protect the medication from direct light to maintain its effectiveness.

Disposal of Avacopan:

• Do not flush Avacopan down the toilet or pour it into a drain unless specifically instructed to do so.
• If possible, use a medication take-back program in your community or follow the disposal instructions provided by your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
• If no take-back programs are available, mix Avacopan with an undesirable substance (like dirt, cat litter, or used coffee grounds), place it in a sealed plastic bag, and dispose of it in your household trash.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Contact Emergency Services: Call your local emergency number (like 911 in the U.S.) or go to the nearest emergency room if you suspect an overdose.
• Call Poison Control: In the U.S., you can call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for immediate advice.
• Symptoms of Overdose: Symptoms may include severe dizziness, fainting, severe nausea or vomiting, abdominal pain, or signs of liver problems (such as yellowing of the skin or eyes).

What other information should I know?

• Regular Medical Appointments: Keep all medical and laboratory appointments while on Avacopan to monitor for side effects, especially liver function and kidney health.
• Avoid Certain Vaccines: Live vaccines (such as the MMR, yellow fever, and varicella vaccines) should be avoided while taking Avacopan unless specifically approved by your healthcare provider.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Always inform your doctors, dentists, and other healthcare providers that you are taking Avacopan, especially before any surgery or medical procedure.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Let your doctor know if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Avacopan may have potential risks to the fetus or nursing infant.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for the next dose. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.

If you have any additional questions or concerns about Avacopan, always follow your healthcare provider’s guidance and instructions for the safe use, storage, and disposal of Avacopan.