Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

ANAKINRA - INJECTABLE

(an-a-KIN-ra)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Kineret

WARNING: Anakinra may put your body at an increased risk for serious infections. This drug is not recommended if you currently have an infection or an infection-related illness (e.g., pneumonia, tuberculosis). Tell your doctor if you currently have, or if you develop any symptoms of an infection such as fever, persistent sore throat, productive cough (e.g., sputum-producing), or unusual weakness. The risk of developing serious infections is even greater if you are also using a tumor necrosis factor drug such as etanercept. Check with your doctor before starting this drug if you are currently receiving etanercept.

Uses

Anakinra is a protein medication used, either alone or in combination with other medications, to treat the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (e.g., pain, swelling). It is recommended in patients who have not responded well to other rheumatoid arthritis drugs (e.g., methotrexate, sulfasalazine). Anakinra is not a cure for rheumatoid arthritis. Anakinra is not recommended for other types of arthritis (e.g., osteoarthritis).

How To Use

Learn how to prepare and inject this drug and review the Anakinra Patient Information Leaflet with your doctor or pharmacist. Inject this medication under the skin (subcutaneously-SC) usually once daily; or as directed by your doctor. It is important to try to give this medication about the same time each day. Do not shake the syringe. Doing so may make this medication ineffective. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist.

Side Effects

Injection site reactions (e.g., pain, redness, swelling, irritation), headache, nausea, or diarrhea may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: flu-like symptoms (e.g., fever, chills, sore throat, unusual weakness, muscle aches), sinus pain, stomach pain. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: skin swelling/redness (especially at areas other than the injection site), trouble breathing. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: kidney problems, asthma, immune system problems, any allergies. This medication may affect your immune system function. Do not have immunizations/vaccinations without the consent of your doctor because they may not be effective. Avoid live vaccines (e.g., oral polio vaccine) while using this medicine. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the side effects of the drug. This medication is not recommended for use in children under 18 years of age. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication. It is not known if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially: certain other rheumatoid arthritis drugs (e.g., tumor necrosis factor drugs such as etanercept or infliximab), drugs that may suppress your immune system (e.g., cancer chemotherapy or corticosteroids such as prednisone). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.

Notes

Do not share this medication with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., white blood cell counts) will be performed to monitor your progress and for the occurrence of side effects.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store in a refrigerator between 36 and 46 degrees F (2 and 8 degrees C) away from light. Do not freeze or shake this medication.