Mepolizumab is used to treat a rare severe form of asthma caused by high level of white blood cells called eosinophils.
This medicine may also be used to treat other conditions as decided by your doctor.
Mepolizumab is to be injected subcutaneously (into the fatty layer under the skin, usually in the upper arm, thigh or abdomen area).
Your doctor or nurse will administer the injection for you.
Remember to rotate the injection sites. Do not inject into the same area all the time. If more injection is administered at the same site, separate injections in increments at least 2 inches apart. Do not inject near the navel (belly button).
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the course of your treatment depending on your condition.
Ensure that you keep all appointments with your doctor so that you do not miss any doses. Your doctor also needs to regularly monitor your response to Mepolizumab.
If you miss an appointment or miss an injection, alert your doctor or nurse. A replacement appointment or injection should be given as soon as possible.
Inform your doctor if you have or living in a region with common parasitic infestation. It should be treated before starting therapy with Mepolizumab.
Your doctor may advise you to receive a vaccination for viral infection if appropriate before initiating treatment with this medicine.
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Be sure to consult your doctor or pharmacist before giving Mepolizumab to a child.
If you are also taking oral or inhaled steroids, do not stop the steroid unless your doctor has specifically told you to do so. Your doctor will gradually reduce the dose of your steroids. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.
Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
- You may need to have routine lung tests (e.g. pulmonary function tests) while you are being treated with Mepolizumab. Your doctor will advise you about how often you will need to have these tests.
- Regular monitoring may be necessary for signs and symptoms of worsening in your asthma condition.
Mepolizumab may cause any of the following side effects: headache, stuffy nose, common cold, sore throat, stomach pain, bladder infection, tiredness, muscle pain, itching and burning sensation at the site of injection.
If you develop rashes, breathlessness, light headedness, swollen eyes, face, or mouth, stop taking this medicine and inform your doctor quickly. These could be signs of an allergic reaction.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in the refrigerator, between 2-8°C. Do not allow to freeze. If frozen, this medicine will become ineffective and should not be used.
If you notice that the injection has changed colour or has become cloudy, do not use it. Throw it away and use a new injection.
Keep in the original packaging to protect from light. Keep away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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