WARNING

Taking Iptacopan, like any medication, carries certain risks. Some potential risks associated with Iptacopan include:

• Side Effects: Common side effects of Iptacopan may include nausea, diarrhea, headache, fatigue, and high blood pressure. In some cases, more severe side effects such as liver problems or allergic reactions may occur.
• Drug Interactions: Iptacopan may interact with other medications, potentially affecting their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. It’s important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
• Liver and Kidney Function: Iptacopan may affect liver and kidney function, so regular monitoring of these parameters may be necessary during treatment.
• Bleeding Risk: Iptacopan may increase the risk of bleeding, especially in individuals with bleeding disorders or those taking blood-thinning medications.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of Iptacopan in pregnant or breastfeeding women is not well-established, and its use during these periods should be carefully considered.
• Allergic Reactions: Allergic reactions to Iptacopan, although rare, can occur and may manifest as rash, itching, swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing.
• Other Risks: There may be other, less common risks associated with taking Iptacopan, which vary depending on individual factors such as medical history and overall health status.

It’s essential to discuss the potential risks and benefits of Iptacopan with your healthcare provider before starting treatment. Your doctor can help assess whether Iptacopan is suitable for you and provide guidance on minimizing risks while taking the medication. Regular monitoring and open communication with your healthcare team can help ensure safe and effective use of Iptacopan.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Iptacopan, also known by its brand name LNP023. Iptacopan is a medication primarily prescribed for the treatment of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) and C3 glomerulopathy (C3G). PNH is a rare blood disorder characterized by the destruction of red blood cells, while C3G is a rare kidney disorder caused by abnormal activation of the complement system, a part of the immune system.

Iptacopan works by inhibiting the activity of the C3 protein in the complement system, thereby helping to control the abnormal immune response that leads to the symptoms of PNH and C3G.

How should this medicine be used?

Iptacopan is typically prescribed by a healthcare professional, and its usage should be strictly according to their instructions. However, I can provide some general guidelines on how Iptacopan is commonly used:

• Dosage: The dosage of Iptacopan can vary depending on factors such as the patient’s age, weight, medical condition, and response to treatment. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage for you.
• Administration: Iptacopan is usually taken orally, with or without food, as directed by your doctor. It’s essential to swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water and not to crush, chew, or break it.
• Timing: It’s important to take Iptacopan at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your body and maximize its effectiveness. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
• Duration of Treatment: The duration of treatment with Iptacopan will be determined by your healthcare provider based on your specific condition and response to the medication. It’s essential to complete the full course of treatment prescribed, even if you start to feel better, unless instructed otherwise by your doctor.
• Monitoring: While taking Iptacopan, your doctor may periodically monitor your condition, including blood tests and other assessments, to evaluate the effectiveness of the medication and check for any potential side effects.
• Adverse Effects: It’s essential to be aware of any potential side effects of Iptacopan and promptly report them to your healthcare provider. Common side effects may include nausea, diarrhea, headache, fatigue, and changes in blood pressure. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, seek medical attention immediately.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the use of Iptacopan and do not adjust the dosage or stop taking the medication without consulting them first. If you have any questions or concerns about the use of Iptacopan, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider.

Other uses for this medicine

Iptacopan is primarily indicated for the treatment of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) and C3 glomerulopathy (C3G), as mentioned earlier. However, there may be ongoing research or off-label uses for Iptacopan in other conditions. It’s crucial to note that any such use should be discussed with and supervised by a healthcare professional.

What special precautions should I follow?

As for special precautions to follow when using Iptacopan, here are some important points to consider:

• Medical History: Before starting Iptacopan, inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have, especially if you have a history of liver or kidney problems, bleeding disorders, or any allergies to medications.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of using Iptacopan with your doctor. There is limited information available on the safety of Iptacopan in pregnant or breastfeeding women, so caution is advised.
• Interactions with Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking, as Iptacopan may interact with certain drugs. This includes both prescription and over-the-counter medications.
• Liver Function: Iptacopan may affect liver function, so your doctor may monitor your liver enzymes periodically during treatment. If you experience symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or persistent abdominal pain, notify your doctor immediately.
• Kidney Function: Since Iptacopan is primarily excreted through the kidneys, your doctor may monitor your kidney function regularly, especially if you have pre-existing kidney problems.
• Bleeding Risk: Iptacopan may increase the risk of bleeding, especially in patients with certain medical conditions or those taking blood-thinning medications. If you experience any signs of bleeding, such as unusual bruising, nosebleeds, or prolonged bleeding from cuts, seek medical attention promptly.
• Allergic Reactions: If you develop signs of an allergic reaction to Iptacopan, such as rash, itching, swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and any additional precautions they provide regarding the use of Iptacopan. If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Special Dietary Instructions:

• There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Iptacopan.
• However, it’s essential to maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated unless instructed otherwise by your healthcare provider.
• If you have any concerns about diet or nutrition while taking Iptacopan, consult your doctor or a registered dietitian for personalized recommendations.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• If you forget to take a dose of Iptacopan, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose.
• If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one, as this may increase the risk of side effects.
• If you are unsure about what to do, or if you miss multiple doses, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

As with any medication, Iptacopan can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Common side effects of Iptacopan may include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Fatigue
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Abnormal liver function tests
• Upper respiratory tract infection
• Decreased white blood cell count (neutropenia)

These side effects are usually mild to moderate in severity and may improve over time as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if any of these side effects persist or worsen, or if you experience any other unusual symptoms, it’s essential to notify your healthcare provider promptly.

In some cases, Iptacopan may cause more severe side effects that require immediate medical attention. These can include:

• Allergic reactions, such as rash, itching, swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing
• Severe liver problems, characterized by symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or persistent abdominal pain
• Signs of bleeding, such as unusual bruising, nosebleeds, or prolonged bleeding from cuts

If you experience any of these severe side effects while taking Iptacopan, seek medical attention immediately.

It’s important to note that this list of side effects is not exhaustive, and other side effects may occur. Additionally, individual responses to medication can vary, so not everyone will experience the same side effects. If you have any concerns about potential side effects of Iptacopan or how it may affect you personally, discuss them with your healthcare provider.

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

Storage and Disposal:

• Storage:
  • Store Iptacopan tablets at room temperature away from light and moisture.
  • Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets.
  • Do not store Iptacopan in the bathroom, as moisture and heat can degrade the medication.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of unused or expired Iptacopan tablets properly according to local regulations or guidelines.
  • Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into drains unless instructed to do so.
  • If you are unsure about how to dispose of Iptacopan safely, consult your pharmacist or healthcare provider for guidance.

In case of emergency/overdose

• In case of an overdose or emergency, contact your local poison control center or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
• Symptoms of overdose may include severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
• If possible, bring the medication container or label to the emergency room to help healthcare providers identify the medication involved.

What other information should I know?

• Keep all appointments with your healthcare provider for monitoring and follow-up while taking Iptacopan.
• Do not share Iptacopan with others, even if they have similar symptoms or conditions, as it may not be appropriate for them.
• Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care that you are taking Iptacopan before undergoing any medical procedures or surgeries.
• If you have any questions or concerns about Iptacopan or its use, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Following these guidelines for storage, disposal, and handling in case of emergencies can help ensure the safe and effective use of Iptacopan. If you have any specific concerns or questions, it’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for personalized advice and guidance.