Epysqli (Eculizumab-Aagh) for PNH

Overview
Epysqli is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) to reduce hemolysis (breakdown of red blood cells). Before starting this medication, a person may need to complete or update their meningococcal vaccination at least two weeks prior, due to the increased risk of serious and life-threatening infections caused by Neisseria meningitidis. It is a biosimilar to eculizumab (Soliris). Epysqli is also known by its drug name, eculizumab-aagh.

Epysqli is a complement inhibitor. It works by inhibiting the complement system, which is part of the immune system that attacks the body’s own red blood cells in PNH. By inhibiting this system, Epysqli helps reduce the destruction of red blood cells.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Epysqli is administered as an intravenous (IV) infusion. The recommended dosing schedule for PNH typically involves an initial phase of weekly infusions, followed by maintenance infusions every two weeks. 

Side effects
Common side effects of Epysqli among people with PNH include headache, nasopharyngitis (inflammation of the nasal passages and throat), back pain, and nausea.

Rare but serious side effects may include serious meningococcal infections, which can be life-threatening, even in people who are vaccinated. Other rare serious side effects include infusion-related reactions (adverse reactions occurring during or shortly after the infusion).

For more information about this treatment, visit:

Epysqli (Eculizumab-Aagh) Injection, for Intravenous Use — U.S. Food and Drug Administration

Epysqli — Drugs.com