Patient leaflets and SmPCs, drug interaction checker, official dosages and NHS pharmacy opening hours — all in one place.
Patient leaflets and SmPCs, drug interaction checker, official dosages and NHS pharmacy opening hours — all in one place.
The electronic medicines compendium (emc) no longer publishes a Summary of Product Characteristics for this product, which usually means it is no longer marketed in the UK. The patient leaflet below is kept for reference, but the product may not be available.
If you were prescribed this medicine, other products containing Eculizumab may still be available. Do not stop your treatment — ask your pharmacist or GP what to use instead.
for
What is Epysqli Epysqli contains the active substance eculizumab and it belongs to a class of medicines called monoclonal antibodies. Eculizumab binds to and inhibits a specific protein in the body that causes inflammation and so prevents your body's systems from attacking and destroying vulnerable blood cells, kidneys, muscles or eye nerves and spinal cord. What is Epysqli used for Paroxysmal Nocturnal Haemoglobinuria Epysqli is used to treat adults and children patients with a certain type of disease affecting the blood system called Paroxysmal Nocturnal Haemoglobinuria (PNH). In patients with PNH, their red blood cells can be destroyed which can lead to low blood counts (anaemia), tiredness, difficulty in functioning, pain, dark urine, shortness of breath, and blood clots. Eculizumab can block the body's inflammatory response, and its ability to attack and destroy its own vulnerable PNH blood cells. Atypcial Haemolytic Uremic Syndrome Epysqli is also used to treat adults and children patients with a certain type of disease affecting the blood system and kidney called atypical Haemolytic Uremic Syndrome (aHUS). In patients with aHUS, their kidney and blood cells, including platelets, can be inflamed which can lead to low blood counts (thrombocytopenia and anaemia), reduced or lost kidney function, blood clots, tiredness and difficulty in functioning. Eculizumab can block the body's inflammatory response, and its ability to attack and destroy its own vulnerable blood and kidney cells.
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e Epysqli
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Do not use Epysqli If you are allergic to eculizumab, proteins derived from mouse products, other monoclonal antibodies, or any of the other ingredients of this medicine (listed in section 6). If you have not been vaccinated against meningococcal infection unless you take antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection until 2 weeks after you have been vaccinated . If you have a meningococcal infection. Warnings and precautions Meningococcal and other Neisseria infections alert Epysqli treatment may reduce your natural resistance to infections, especially against certain organisms that cause meningococcal infection (severe infection of the linings of the brain and sepsis) and other Neisseria infections including disseminated gonorrhea. Consult your doctor before you take Epysqli to be sure that you receive vaccination against Neisseria meningitidis, an organism that causes meningococcal infection, at least 2 weeks before beginning therapy, or that you take antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection until 2 weeks after you have been vaccinated. Ensure that your current meningococcal vaccination is up to date. You should also be aware that vaccination may not prevent this type of infection. In accordance with national recommendations, your doctor might consider that you need supplementary measures to prevent infection. If you are at risk of gonorrhoea, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before using this medicine. Meningococcal infection symptoms Because of the importance of rapidly identifying and treating certain types of infection in patients who receive Epysqli, you will be provided a card to carry with you, listing specific trigger symptoms. This card is named: "Patient Card". If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should immediately inform your doctor: headache with nausea or vomiting headache with a stiff neck or back fever rash confusion severe muscle aches combined with flu-like symptoms sensitivity to light Treatment for meningococcal infection while travelling If you are travelling in a remote region where you are unable to contact your doctor or in which you find yourself temporarily unable to receive medical treatment, your doctor can make arrangements to issue, as a preventive measure, a prescription for an antibiotic to counter Neisseria meningitidis that you keep with you. If you experience any of the symptoms amongst those cited above, you should take the antibiotics as prescribed. You should bear in mind that you should see a doctor as soon as possible, even if you feel better after having taken the antibiotics. Infections Before starting Epysqli, inform your doctor if you have any infections. Allergic reactions Epysqli contains a protein and proteins can cause allergic reactions in some people. Children and adolescents Patients less than 18 years of age must be vaccinated against Haemophilus influenzae and pneumococcal infections Elderly 2
There are no special precautions needed for the treatment of patients aged from 65 years and over. Other medicines and Epysqli Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are using or have recently used or might use any other medicines. Pregnancy, breast-feeding, and fertility If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before using this medicine. Women of childbearing potential The use of effective contraception during treatment and up to 5 months after treatment should be considered in women who are able to get pregnant. Pregnancy/ Breast-feeding If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before using this medicine. Driving and using machines Epysqli has no or negligible influence on the ability to drive and use machines. Epysqli contains sodium Once diluted with sodium chloride 9 mg/mL (0.9 %) solution for injection, this medicine contains 0.47 g sodium (main component of cooking/table salt) in 240 mL at the maximal dose. This is equivalent to 23.4 % of the recommended maximum daily dietary intake of sodium for an adult. You should take this into consideration if you are on a controlled sodium diet. Once diluted with sodium chloride 4.5 mg/mL (0.45 %) solution for injection, this medicine contains 0.26 g sodium (main component of cooking/table salt) in 240 mL at the maximal dose. This is equivalent to 12.8 % of the recommended maximum daily dietary intake of sodium for an adult. You should take this into consideration if you are on a controlled sodium diet. Epysqli contains polysorbate 80 This medicine contains 6.6 mg of polysorbate 80 in each vial (30 mL vial) which is equivalent to 0.66 mg/kg or less at the maximum dose for adult patients and paediatric patients with body weight more than 10 kg and is equivalent to 1.32 mg/kg or less at the maximum dose for paediatric patients with body weight 5 to <10 kg. Polysorbates may cause allergic reactions. Tell your doctor if you/your child has any known allergies.
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Epysqli
At least 2 weeks before you start treatment with Epysqli, your doctor will administer a vaccine against meningococcal infection if it was not previously administered or if your vaccination is outdated. If your child is below the age of vaccination or if you are not vaccinated at least 2 weeks before you start treatment with Epysqli, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection until 2 weeks after you have been vaccinated. Your doctor will administer a vaccine to your child aged less than 18 years against Haemophilus influenzae and pneumococcal infections according to the national vaccination recommendations for each age group. Instructions for proper use The treatment will be given by your doctor or other health care provider by infusing a dilution of the Epysqli vial from a drip bag through a tube directly into one of your veins. It is recommended that the beginning of your treatments, called the initial phase, will extend over 4 weeks, followed by a maintenance phase. 3
If you use this medicine to treat PNH For adults: Initial Phase: Every week for the first four weeks, your doctor will administer an intravenous infusion of diluted Epysqli. Each infusion will consist of a dose of 600 mg (2 vials of 30 ml) and will take 25 – 45 minutes (35 minutes ± 10 minutes). Maintenance Phase: In the fifth week, your doctor will administer an intravenous infusion of diluted Epysqli at a dose of 900 mg (3 vials of 30 ml) over a 25 – 45 minute (35 minutes ± 10 minutes) period. After the fifth week, your doctor will administer 900 mg of diluted Epysqli every two weeks as a long-term treatment. If you use this medicine to treat aHUS For adults: Initial Phase: Every week for the first four weeks, your doctor will administer an intravenous infusion of diluted Epysqli. Each infusion will consist of a dose of 900 mg (3 vials of 30 ml) and will take 25 – 45 minutes (35 minutes ± 10 minutes). Maintenance Phase: In the fifth week, your doctor will administer an intravenous infusion of diluted Epysqli at a dose of 1,200 mg (4 vials of 30 ml) over a 25 – 45 minute (35 minutes ± 10 minutes) period. After the fifth week, your doctor will administer 1,200 mg of diluted Epysqli every two weeks as a long-term treatment. For children and adolescents Children and adolescents with PNH or aHUS who are 40 kg weight and over are treated with the adult dosing. Children and adolescents with PNH or aHUS who are under 40 kg weight require a lower dose based on how much they weigh. Your doctor will calculate this. For children and adolescents with PNH and aHUS aged less than 18 years: Body Weight Initial Phase Maintenance Phase 30 to < 40 kg 600 mg weekly for 900 mg at week 3; then 900 mg every 2 weeks the first 2 weeks 20 to < 30 kg
600 mg weekly for the first 2 weeks
600 mg at week 3; then 600 mg every 2 weeks
10 to < 20 kg
600 mg single dose at 300 mg at week 2; then 300 mg every 2 weeks week 1
5 to < 10 kg
300 mg single dose at 300 mg at week 2; then 300 mg every 3 weeks week 1
Following each infusion, you will be monitored for about one hour. Your doctor's instructions should be carefully observed. If you receive more Epysqli than you should If you suspect that you have been accidentally administered a higher dose of Epysqli than prescribed, please contact your doctor for advice. 4
If you forget an appointment to receive Epysqli If you forget an appointment, please contact your doctor immediately for advice and see section below "If you stop using Epysqli". If you stop using Epysqli for PNH Interrupting or ending treatment with Epysqli may cause your PNH symptoms to come back more severely soon. Your doctor will discuss the possible side effects with you and explain the risks. Your doctor will want to monitor you closely for at least 8 weeks. The risks of stopping Epysqli include an increase in the destruction of your red blood cells, which may cause: A significant fall in your red blood cell counts (anaemia), Confusion or change in how alert you are, Chest pain, or angina, An increase in your serum creatinine level (problems with your kidneys), or Thrombosis (blood clotting). If you have any of these symptoms, contact your doctor. If you stop using Epysqli for aHUS Interrupting or ending treatment with Epysqli may cause your aHUS symptoms to come back. Your doctor will discuss the possible side effects with you and explain the risks. Your doctor will want to monitor you closely. The risks of stopping Epysqli include an increase in the inflammation of your platelets, which may cause: A significant fall in your platelets (thrombocytopenia), A significant rise in destruction of your red blood cells, Decreased urination (problems with your kidneys), An increase in your serum creatinine level (problems with your kidneys), Confusion or change in how alert you are, Chest pain, or angina, Shortness of breath, or Thrombosis (blood clotting). If you have any of these symptoms, contact your doctor.
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Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Your doctor will discuss the possible side effects with you and explain the risks and benefits of Epysqli with you prior to treatment. The most serious side effect was meningococcal sepsis (frequency not known (cannot be estimated from the available data)). If you experience any of the meningococcal infection symptoms (see section 2 "Meningococcal and other Neisseria infections alert"), you should immediately inform your doctor. If you are not sure what the side effects below are, ask your doctor to explain them to you. Very common: may affect more than 1 in 10 people: headache. Common: may affect up to 1 in 10 people: infection of the lung (pneumonia), common cold (nasopharyngitis), infection of the urinary system (urinary tract infection), 5
low white blood cell count (leukopenia), reduction in red blood cells which can make the skin pale and cause weakness or breathlessness inability to sleep dizziness, high blood pressure upper respiratory tract infection, cough, throat pain (oropharyngeal pain), bronchitis, cold sores (herpes simplex) diarrhoea, vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain, rash, hair loss (alopecia), itchy skin (pruritus) pain in the joints (arms and legs), pain in the limbs (arms and legs) fever (pyrexia), feeling tired (fatigue), influenza like illness infusion related reaction Uncommon: may affect up to 1 in 100 people: severe infection (meningococcal infection), sepsis, septic shock, viral infection, lower respiratory tract infection, stomach flu (gastrointestinal infection), cystitis infection, fungal infection, collection of pus (abscess), type of infection of the skin (cellulitis), influenza, sinusitis, tooth infection (abscess), gum infection relatively few platelets in blood (thrombocytopenia), low level of lymphocytes a specific type of white blood cells (lymphopenia), feeling your heartbeat serious allergic reaction which causes difficulty in breathing or dizziness (anaphylactic reaction), hypersensitivity loss of appetite depression, anxiety, mood swings, sleep disorder tingling in part of the body (paresthesia), shaking, taste disorders (dysgeusia), fainting vision blurred ringing in the ears, vertigo sudden and rapid development of extremely high blood pressure, low blood pressure, hot flush, vein disorder dyspnoea (difficulty breathing), nose bleed, stuffy nose (nasal congestion), throat irritation, runny nose (rhinorrhoea) inflammation of the peritoneum (the tissue that lines most of the organs of the abdomen), constipation, stomach discomfort after meals (dyspepsia), abdominal distension hives, redness of the skin, dry skin, red or purple spots under the skin, increased sweating, inflammation of the skin muscle cramp, muscle aches, back and neck pain, bone pain kidney disorder, difficulties or pain when urinating (dysuria), blood in urine spontaneous penile erection swelling (edema), chest discomfort, feeling of weakness (asthenia), chest pain, infusion site pain, chills increase of liver enzymes, decrease of the proportion of blood volume that is occupied by red blood cells, decrease in the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen Rare: may affect up to 1 in 1 000 people: infection by fungi (Aspergillus infection), infection of the joint (arthritis bacterial), Haemophilus infection, impetigo, bacterial sexual transmitted disease (gonorrhea) skin tumor (melanoma), bone marrow disorder destruction of red blood cells (haemolysis), clumping of cells, abnormal clotting factor, abnormal blood clotting, disease with thyroid overactivity (Grave's disease) abnormal dreams irritation of eye bruise unusual backflow of food from stomach, gum pain yellowing of the skin and/or eyes (jaundice) skin colour disorder 6
spasm of mouth muscle, joint swelling menstrual disorder abnormal leakage of the infused medicine out of the vein, infusion site abnormal sensation, feeling hot Reporting of side effects If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist or nurse. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme at: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store. By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.
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Epysqli
Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use this medicine after the expiry date which is stated on the carton and the vial label after "EXP". The expiry date refers to the last day of that month. Store in a refrigerator (2 °C – 8 C). Do not freeze. Epysqli vials in the original package may be removed from refrigerated storage for only one single period of up to 2 months at room temperature (up to 30 °C), but not beyond the original expiry date. At the end of this period the product can be put back in the refrigerator. Store in the original package in order to protect from light. After dilution, the product should be used within 24 hours at 2 °C – 8 °C or at room temperature (up to 30 °C). However, if the solution is prepared in aseptic (germ-free) conditions, it can be stored in the refrigerator at 2 °C to 8 °C up to 3 months and for an additional 72 hours at room temperature (up to 30 °C) when diluted with sodium chloride 9 mg/ml (0.9 %) solution for injection, sodium chloride 4.5 mg/ml (0.45 %) solution for injection. Do not throw away any medicines via wastewater. Ask your pharmacist how to throw away medicines you no longer use. These measures will help protect the environment.
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What Epysqli contains The active substance is eculizumab (300 mg/30 ml in a vial corresponding to 10 mg/ml). The other ingredients are:
Marketing Authorisation Holder Samsung Bioepis UK Limited 5th floor, Profile West, 950 Great West Road Brentford, Middlesex TW8 9ES United Kingdom Manufacturer Samsung Bioepis NL. B.V. Olof Palmestraat 10 2616 LR Delft The Netherlands This leaflet was last revised in 11/2025.
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Instructions for Use for Healthcare Professionals Handling EpysqliTM The following information is intended for medical or healthcare professionals only: 1- How is Epysqli supplied? Each vial of Epysqli contains 300 mg of active substance in 30 ml of product solution. 2- Before Administration Reconstitution and dilution should be performed in accordance with good practices rules, particularly for the respect of asepsis. Epysqli should be prepared for administration by a qualified healthcare professional using aseptic technique. Inspect visually Epysqli solution for particulate matter and discolouration. Withdraw the required amount of Epysqli from the vial(s) using a sterile syringe. Transfer the recommended dose to an infusion bag. Dilute Epysqli to a final concentration of 5 mg/ml (initial concentration divided by 2) by adding the appropriate amount of diluent to the infusion bag. For 300 mg doses, use 30 ml of Epysqli (10 mg/ml) and add 30 ml of diluent. For 600 mg doses, use 60 ml of Epysqli and add 60 ml of diluent. For 900 mg doses, use 90 ml of Epysqli and add 90 ml of diluent. For 1,200 mg doses, use 120 ml of Epysqli and add 120 ml of diluent. The final volume of a 5 mg/ml diluted Epysqli solution is 60 ml for 300 mg doses, 120 ml for 600 mg doses, 180 ml for 900 mg doses or 240 ml for 1,200 mg doses. Diluents are sodium chloride 9 mg/ml (0.9 %) solution for injection, sodium chloride 4.5 mg/ml (0.45 %) solution for injection or 5 % glucose in water. Gently agitate the infusion bag containing the diluted Epysqli solution to ensure thorough mixing of the medicinal product and diluent. The diluted solution should be allowed to warm to room temperature (up to 30 °C) prior to administration by exposure to ambient air. The diluted solution must not be heated in a microwave or with any heat source other than the prevailing room temperature. Discard any unused portion left in a vial. Diluted solution of Epysqli may be stored at 2 °C – 8 °C or at room temperature (up to 30 °C) for 24 hours after removal from refrigeration. However, if the solution is prepared in aseptic (germfree) conditions, it can be stored in the refrigerator at 2 °C to 8 °C up to 3 months and for an
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additional 72 hours at room temperature (up to 30 °C) when diluted with sodium chloride 9 mg/ml (0.9 %) solution for injection, sodium chloride 4.5 mg/ml (0.45 %) solution for injection. 3- Administration Do not administer Epysqli as an intravenous push or bolus injection. Epysqli should only be administered via intravenous infusion. The diluted solution of Epysqli should be administered by intravenous infusion over 25 to 45 minutes (35 minutes ± 10 minutes) in adults and 1-4 hours in paediatric patients under 18 years of age via gravity feed, a syringe-type pump, or an infusion pump. It is not necessary to protect the diluted solution of Epysqli from light during administration to the patient. The patient should be monitored for one hour following infusion. If an adverse event occurs during the administration of Epysqli, the infusion may be slowed or stopped at the discretion of the physician. If the infusion is slowed, the total infusion time may not exceed two hours in adults and four hours in paediatric patients under 18 years of age. 4- Special Handling and Storage Store in a refrigerator (2 °C – 8 °C). Do not freeze. Store in the original package in order to protect from light. Epysqli vials in the original package may be removed from refrigerated storage for only one single period of up to 2 months at room temperature (up to 30 °C), but not exceeding the original expiry date. At the end of this period the product can be put back in the refrigerator. Do not use this medicine after the expiry date which is stated on the carton and vial label after 'EXP'. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.
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Epysqli 300 mg concentrate for solution for infusion comes as infusion containing 300mg. Always follow the dose your doctor or pharmacist has given you, and read the leaflet that comes with the medicine.
The active substance in Epysqli 300 mg concentrate for solution for infusion is eculizumab.
Medicines with the same active substance, strength and form include: BEKEMV 300 mg concentrate for solution for infusion, Soliris 300 mg concentrate for solution for infusion. They are interchangeable only if your prescriber or pharmacist says so.
This leaflet reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for Epysqli 300 mg concentrate for solution for infusion, as published on the electronic medicines compendium (emc). The version printed inside your medicine’s packaging is the one that applies to you.
Whether a medicine is available over the counter or on prescription only depends on its licence. Check the leaflet, or ask your pharmacist — they can tell you straight away.
The text above reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for this medicine, restructured for easier reading.
Epysqli is indicated in adults and children for the treatment of:
- Paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH).
Evidence of clinical benefit is demonstrated in patients with haemolysis with clinical symptom(s) indicative of high disease activity, regardless of transfusion history (see section 5.1).
- Atypical haemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) (see section 5.1).
Epysqli must be administered by a healthcare professional and under the supervision of a physician experienced in the management of patients with haematological or renal disorders.
Home infusion may be considered for patients who have tolerated infusions well in the clinic. The decision of a patient to receive home infusions should be made after evaluation and recommendation from the treating physician. Home infusions should be performed by a qualified healthcare professional.
Posology
Paroxysmal Nocturnal Haemoglobinuria (PNH) in adults
The PNH dosing regimen for adult patients (≥ 18 years of age) consists of a 4-week initial phase followed by a maintenance phase:
• Initial phase: 600 mg of Epysqli administered via a 25 – 45 minute (35 minutes ± 10 minutes) intravenous infusion every week for the first 4 weeks.
• Maintenance phase: 900 mg of Epysqli administered via a 25 – 45 minute (35 minutes ± 10 minutes) intravenous infusion for the fifth week, followed by 900 mg of Epysqli administered via a 25 – 45 minute (35 minutes ± 10 minutes) intravenous infusion every 14 ± 2 days (see section 5.1).
atypical Haemolytic Uremic Syndrome (aHUS) in adults
The aHUS dosing regimen for adult patients (≥ 18 years of age) consists of a 4 week initial phase followed by a maintenance phase:
• Initial phase: 900 mg of Epysqli administered via a 25 – 45 minute (35 minutes ± 10 minutes) intravenous infusion every week for the first 4 weeks.
• Maintenance phase: 1,200 mg of Epysqli administered via a 25 – 45 minute (35 minutes ± 10 minutes) intravenous infusion for the fifth week, followed by 1,200 mg of Epysqli administered via a 25 – 45 minute (35 minutes ± 10 minutes) intravenous infusion every 14 ± 2 days (see section 5.1).
Paediatric patients in PNH or aHUSPaediatric PNH or aHUS patients with body weight ≥ 40 kg are treated with the adult dosing recommendations.
In paediatric PNH and aHUS patients with body weight below 40 kg, Epysqli dosing regimen consists of:
Table 1: Epysqli dose for paediatric patients
Patient body weight
Initial phase
Maintenance phase
30 to < 40 kg
600 mg weekly for the first 2 weeks
900 mg at week 3; then 900 mg every 2 weeks
20 to < 30 kg
600 mg weekly for the first 2 weeks
600 mg at week 3; then 600 mg every 2 weeks
10 to < 20 kg
600 mg single dose at week 1
300 mg at week 2; then 300 mg every 2 weeks
5 to < 10 kg
300 mg single dose at week 1
300 mg at week 2; then 300 mg every 3 weeks
Epysqli has not been studied in patients with PNH who weigh less than 40kg. The posology of Epysqli to be used in paediatric patients with PNH patients weighing less than 40 kg is identical to the weight-based dose recommendation provided for paediatric patients with aHUS. Based on the pharmacokinetic (PK)/pharmacodynamic (PD) data available in patients with aHUS and PNH treated with eculizumab, this body-weight based dose regimen for paediatric patients is expected to result in an efficacy and safety profile similar to that in adults.
Supplemental dosing of Epysqli is required in the setting of concomitant plasmapheresis (PP), plasma exchange (PE), or fresh frozen plasma infusion (PI) as described below:
Type of plasma intervention
Most recent Epysqli dose
Supplemental Epysqli dose with each PP/PE/PI Intervention
Timing of supplemental Epysqli dose
Plasmapheresis or plasma exchange
300 mg
300 mg per each plasmapheresis or plasma exchange session
Within 60 minutes after each plasmapheresis or plasma exchange
≥ 600 mg
600 mg per each plasmapheresis or plasma exchange session
Fresh frozen plasma infusion
≥ 300 mg
300 mg per infusion of fresh frozen plasma
60 minutes prior to each infusion of fresh frozen plasma
Abbreviations: PP/PE/PI = plasmapheresis/plasma exchange/plasma infusion
Supplemental dose of Epysqli is required in the setting of concomitant intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) treatment as described below (see also Section 4.5):
Most recent Epysqli dose
Supplemental Epysqli dose
Timing of supplemental Epysqli dose
≥ 900 mg
600 mg per IVIg cycle
As soon as possible after IVIg cycle
≤ 600 mg
300 mg per IVIg cycle
Abbreviation: IVIg = intravenous immunoglobulin
Treatment monitoring
aHUS patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms of thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) (see section 4.4 aHUS laboratory monitoring).
Epysqli treatment is recommended to continue for the patient's lifetime, unless the discontinuation of Epysqli is clinically indicated (see section 4.4).
Special populations
Elderly Epysqli may be administered to patients aged 65 years and over. There is no evidence to suggest that any special precautions are needed when older people are treated – although experience with eculizumab in this patient population is still limited.
Renal impairment No dose adjustment is required for patients with renal impairment (see section 5.1).
Hepatic impairment The safety and efficacy of eculizumab have not been studied in patients with hepatic impairment.
Method of administration
Epysqli should not be administered as an intravenous push or bolus injection. Epysqli should only be administered via intravenous infusion as described below.
For instructions on dilution of the medicinal product before administration, see section 6.6.The diluted solution of Epysqli should be administered by intravenous infusion over 25 – 45 minutes (35 minutes ± 10 minutes) in adults and 1-4 hours in paediatric patients under 18 years of age via gravity feed, a syringe-type pump, or an infusion pump.
Patients should be monitored for one hour following infusion. If an adverse event occurs during the administration of Epysqli, the infusion may be slowed or stopped at the discretion of the physician. If the infusion is slowed, the total infusion time may not exceed two hours in adults and four hours in paediatric patients under 18 years of age.
There is limited safety data supporting home-based infusions, additional precautions in the home setting such as availability of emergency treatment of infusion reactions or anaphylaxis are recommended. Infusion reactions are described in sections 4.4 and 4.8 on the SmPC.
Hypersensitivity to the active substance, CHO cell products or to any of the excipients listed in section 6.1.
Eculizumab therapy must not be initiated in patients (see section 4.4):
- with unresolved Neisseria meningitidis infection
- who are not currently vaccinated against Neisseria meningitidis unless they receive prophylactic treatment with appropriate antibiotics until 2 weeks after vaccination.
TraceabilityIn order to improve the traceability of biological medicinal products, the name and the batch number of the administered product should be clearly recorded. Eculizumab is not expected to affect the aplastic component of anaemia in patients with PNH.
Meningococcal InfectionDue to its mechanism of action, the use of eculizumab increases the patient's susceptibility to meningococcal infection (Neisseria meningitidis). Meningococcal disease due to any serogroup may occur. To reduce the risk of infection, all patients must be vaccinated at least 2 weeks prior to receiving eculizumab unless the risk of delaying eculizumab therapy outweighs the risks of developing a meningococcal infection. Patients who initiate eculizumab treatment less than 2 weeks after receiving a tetravalent meningococcal vaccine must receive treatment with appropriate prophylactic antibiotics until 2 weeks after vaccination. Vaccines against all available serogroups including A, C, Y, W 135, and B are recommended in preventing the commonly pathogenic meningococcal serogroups. Patients must be vaccinated and revaccinated according to current national guidelines for vaccination use.
Vaccination may further activate complement. As a result, patients with complement-mediated diseases, including PNH and aHUS, may experience increased signs and symptoms of their underlying disease, such as haemolysis (PNH) or TMA (aHUS). Therefore, patients should be closely monitored for disease symptoms after recommended vaccination.
Vaccination may not be sufficient to prevent meningococcal infection. Consideration should be given to official guidance on the appropriate use of antibacterial agents. Cases of serious or fatal meningococcal infections have been reported in eculizumab-treated patients. Sepsis is a common presentation of meningococcal infections in patients treated with eculizumab (see section 4.8). All patients should be monitored for early signs of meningococcal infection, evaluated immediately if infection is suspected, and treated with appropriate antibiotics if necessary. Patients should be informed of these signs and symptoms and steps taken to seek medical care immediately. Physicians must discuss the benefits and risks of eculizumab therapy with patients and provide them with a patient guide and a patient card (see Package Leaflet for a description).
Other Systemic InfectionsDue to its mechanism of action, eculizumab therapy should be administered with caution to patients with active systemic infections. Patients may have increased susceptibility to infections, especially with Neisseria and encapsulated bacteria. Serious infections with Neisseria species (other than Neisseria meningitidis), including disseminated gonococcal infections, have been reported.Patients should be provided with information from the Package Leaflet to increase their awareness of potential serious infections and the signs and symptoms of them. Physicians should advise patients about gonorrhoea prevention.
Infusion ReactionsAdministration of eculizumab may result in infusion reactions or immunogenicity that could cause allergic or hypersensitivity reactions (including anaphylaxis). In clinical trials of the reference medicinal product, 1 (0.9%) refractory generalised myasthenia gravis (gMG) patient experienced an infusion reaction which required discontinuation of eculizumab. No PNH or aHUS paediatric patients experienced an infusion reaction which required discontinuation of eculizumab. Eculizumab administration should be interrupted in all patients experiencing severe infusion reactions and appropriate medical therapy administered.
ImmunogenicityAnti-eculizumab antibodies may develop during eculizumab treatment. No apparent correlation of antibody development with clinical response or adverse events has been observed.
ImmunisationPrior to initiating eculizumab therapy, it is recommended that patients initiate immunisations according to current immunisation guidelines. Additionally, all patients must be vaccinated against meningococcal infections at least 2 weeks prior to receiving eculizumab unless the risk of delaying eculizumab therapy outweighs the risks of developing a meningococcal infection. Patients who initiate eculizumab treatment less than 2 weeks after receiving a tetravalent meningococcal vaccine must receive treatment with appropriate prophylactic antibiotics until 2 weeks after vaccination. Vaccines against all available serogroups including A, C, Y, W 135 and B are recommended in preventing the commonly pathogenic meningococcal serogroups. Patients must be vaccinated and revaccinated according to current national guidelines for vaccination use (see Meningococcal Infection).
Patients less than 18 years of age must be vaccinated against Haemophilus influenzae and pneumococcal infections, and strictly need to adhere to the national vaccination recommendations for each age group.
Vaccination may further activate complement. As a result, patients with complement-mediated diseases, including PNH and aHUS may experience increased signs and symptoms of their underlying disease, such as haemolysis (PNH) or TMA (aHUS). Therefore, patients should be closely monitored for disease symptoms after recommended vaccination.
Anticoagulant therapyTreatment with eculizumab should not alter anticoagulant management.
PNH Laboratory MonitoringPNH patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms of intravascular haemolysis, including serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels. PNH patients receiving eculizumab therapy should be similarly monitored for intravascular haemolysis by measuring LDH levels, and may require dose adjustment within the recommended 14±2 day dosing schedule during the maintenance phase (up to every 12 days).
aHUS Laboratory MonitoringaHUS patients receiving eculizumab therapy should be monitored for thrombotic microangiopathy by measuring platelet counts, serum LDH and serum creatinine, and may require dose adjustment within the recommended 14±2 day dosing schedule during the maintenance phase (up to every 12 days).
Treatment Discontinuation for PNHIf patients discontinue treatment with eculizumab they should be closely monitored for signs and symptoms of serious intravascular haemolysis. Serious haemolysis is identified by serum LDH levels greater than the pre-treatment level, along with any of the following: greater than 25% absolute decrease in PNH clone size (in the absence of dilution due to transfusion) in one week or less; a haemoglobin level of < 5 g/dL or a decrease of > 4 g/dL in one week or less; angina; change in mental status; a 50% increase in serum creatinine level; or thrombosis. Monitor any patient who discontinues eculizumab for at least 8 weeks to detect serious haemolysis and other reactions.If serious haemolysis occurs after eculizumab discontinuation, consider the following procedures/treatments: blood transfusion (packed RBCs), or exchange transfusion if the PNH RBCs are > 50 % of the total RBCs by flow cytometry; anticoagulation; corticosteroids; or reinstitution of eculizumab. In PNH clinical trials, 16 patients discontinued the eculizumab treatment regimen. Serious haemolysis was not observed.
Treatment Discontinuation for aHUSThrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) complications have been observed as early as 4 weeks and up to 127 weeks following discontinuation of eculizumab treatment in some patients. Discontinuation of treatment should only be considered if medically justified.
In aHUS clinical studies, 61 patients (21 paediatric patients) discontinued eculizumab treatment with a median follow-up period of 24 weeks. Fifteen severe thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) complications in 12 patients were observed following treatment discontinuation, and 2 severe TMA complications occurred in an additional 2 patients that received a reduced dosing regimen of eculizumab outside of the approved dosing regimen (see section 4.2). Severe TMA complications occurred in patients regardless of whether they had an identified genetic mutation, high risk polymorphism or auto-antibody. Additional serious medical complications occurred in these patients including severe worsening of kidney function, disease-related hospitalization and progression to end stage renal disease requiring dialysis. Despite eculizumab re-initiation following discontinuation, progression to end stage renal disease occurred in one patient. If aHUS patients discontinue treatment with eculizumab, they should be monitored closely for signs and symptoms of severe thrombotic microangiopathy complications. Monitoring may be insufficient to predict or prevent severe thrombotic microangiopathy complications in patients with aHUS after discontinuation of eculizumab. Severe thrombotic microangiopathy complications post discontinuation can be identified by (i) any two, or repeated measurement of any one, of the following: a decrease in platelet count of 25% or more as compared to either baseline or to peak platelet count during eculizumab treatment; an increase in serum creatinine of 25% or more as compared to baseline or to nadir during eculizumab treatment; or, an increase in serum LDH of 25% or more as compared to baseline or to nadir during eculizumab treatment; or (ii) any one of the following: a change in mental status or seizures; angina or dyspnoea; or thrombosis. If severe thrombotic microangiopathy complications occur after eculizumab discontinuation, consider reinstitution of eculizumab treatment, supportive care with PE/PI, or appropriate organ-specific supportive measures including renal support with dialysis, respiratory support with mechanical ventilation or anticoagulation.
Educational materialsAll physicians who intend to prescribe eculizumab must ensure they are familiar with the guide for Healthcare Professionals to prescribing. Physicians must discuss the benefits and risks of eculizumab therapy with patients and provide them with a Patient guide and a patient card.Patients should be instructed that if they develop fever, headache accompanied with fever and/or stiff neck or sensitivity to light, they should immediately seek medical care as these signs may be indicative of meningococcal infection.
Excipients with known effect
Sodium Once diluted with sodium chloride 9 mg/mL (0.9 %) solution for injection, this medicinal product contains 0.47 g sodium per 240 mL at the maximal dose, equivalent to 23.4 % of the WHO recommended maximum daily intake of 2 g sodium for an adult.Once diluted with sodium chloride 4.5 mg/mL (0.45 %) solution for injection, this medicinal product contains 0.26 g sodium per 240 mL at the maximal dose, equivalent to 12.8 % of the WHO recommended maximum daily intake of 2 g sodium for an adult.
Polysorbate 80
This medicinal product contains 6.6 mg of polysorbate 80 in each vial (30 mL vial) which is equivalent to 0.66 mg/kg or less at the maximum dose for adult patients and paediatric patients with body weight more than 10 kg and is equivalent to 1.32 mg/kg or less at the maximum dose for paediatric patients with body weight 5 to <10 kg. Polysorbates may cause allergic reactions.
No interaction studies have been performed. Based on the potential inhibitory effect of eculizumab on complement-dependent cytotoxicity of rituximab, eculizumab may reduce the expected pharmacodynamic effects of rituximab.
Plasma exchange (PE), plasmapheresis (PP), fresh frozen plasma infusion (PI) and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) have been shown to reduce eculizumab serum levels. A supplemental dose of eculizumab is required in these settings. See Section 4.2 for guidance in case of concomitant PE, PP, PI, or IVIg treatment.
Concomitant use of eculizumab with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) may reduce effectiveness of eculizumab. Closely monitor for reduced effectiveness of eculizumab.
Concomitant use of eculizumab with neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) blockers may lower systemic exposures and reduce effectiveness of eculizumab. Closely monitor for reduced effectiveness of eculizumab.
The use of adequate contraception to prevent pregnancy and for at least 5 months after the last dose of treatment with eculizumab should be considered for women of childbearing potential.
PregnancyThere are no well-controlled studies in pregnant women treated with eculizumab. Data on a limited number of pregnancies exposed to eculizumab (less than 300 pregnancy outcomes) indicate there is no increased risk of foetal malformation or foetal-neonatal toxicity. However, due to the lack of well-controlled studies, uncertainties remain. Therefore, an individual risk benefit analysis is recommended before starting and during treatment with eculizumab in pregnant women. Should such a treatment be considered necessary during pregnancy, a close maternal and foetal monitoring according to local guidelines is recommended.
Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with eculizumab (see section 5.3).
Human IgG are known to cross the human placental barrier, and thus eculizumab may potentially cause terminal complement inhibition in the foetal circulation. Therefore, eculizumab should be given to a pregnant woman only if clearly needed.
Breast-feedingNo effects on the breastfed newborn / infant are anticipated as limited data available suggest that eculizumab is not excreted in human breast milk. However, due to the limitations of the available data, the developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for eculizumab and any potential adverse events on the breastfed child from eculizumab or from the underlying maternal condition.
FertilityNo specific study of eculizumab on fertility has been conducted.
Eculizumab has no or negligible influence on the ability to drive and use machines.
Summary of the safety profileSupportive safety data were obtained from 33 completed clinical trials that included 1 555 patients exposed to eculizumab in complement-mediated disease populations, including PNH, aHUS, gMG and Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (NMOSD). The most common adverse reaction was headache, (occurred mostly in the initial phase of dosing), and the most serious adverse reaction was meningococcal infection.
Tabulated list of adverse reactionsTable 2 gives the adverse reactions observed from spontaneous reporting and in eculizumab completed clinical trials, including PNH, aHUS, refractory gMG and NMOSD studies. Adverse reactions reported at a very common (≥ 1/10), common (≥ 1/100 to < 1/10), uncommon (≥ 1/1 000 to < 1/100) or rare (≥ 1/10 000 to < 1/1 000) frequency with eculizumab, are listed by system organ class and preferred term. Within each frequency grouping, adverse reactions are presented in order of decreasing seriousness.
Table 2: Adverse reactions reported in eculizumab clinical trials, including patients with PNH, aHUS, refractory gMG and NMOSD as well as from post marketing experience
MedDRA system organ class
Very common(≥1/10)
Common(≥1/100 to <1/10)
Uncommon(≥1/1 000 to <1/100)
Rare(≥1/10000 to <1/1000)
Infection and infestations
Pneumonia, Upper respiratory tract infection, Bronchitis, Nasopharyngitis, Urinary tract infection, Oral Herpes
Meningococcal infectionb, Sepsis, Septic shock, Peritonitis, Lower respiratory tract infection, Fungal infection, Viral infection, Abscessa, Cellulitis, Influenza, Gastrointestinal infection, Cystitis, Infection, Sinusitis, Gingivitis
Aspergillus infectionc, Arthritis bacterialc, Genitourinary tract gonococcal infection, Haemophilus infection, Impetigo
Neoplasms benign, malignant and unspecified (including cysts and polyps)
Malignant melanoma, Myelodysplastic syndrome
Blood and lymphatic system disorders
Leukopenia, Anaemia
Thrombocytopenia, Lymphopenia
Haemolysis*, Abnormal clotting factor, Red blood cell agglutination, Coagulopathy
Immune system disorders
Anaphylactic reaction, Hypersensitivity
Endocrine disorders
Grave's disease
Metabolism and nutrition disorders
Decreased appetite
Psychiatric disorders
Insomnia
Depression, Anxiety, Mood swings, Sleep disorder
Abnormal dreams
Nervous system disorders
Headache
Dizziness
Paraesthesia, Tremor, Dysgeusia, Syncope
Eye disorders
Vision blurred
Conjunctival irritation
Ear and labyrinth disorders
Tinnitus, Vertigo
Cardiac disorders
Palpitation
Vascular disorders
Hypertension
Accelerated hypertension, Hypotension, Hot flush, Vein disorder
Haematoma
Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders
Cough, Oropharyngeal pain
Dyspnoea, Epistaxis, Throat irritation, Nasal congestion, Rhinorrhoea
Gastrointestinal disorders
Diarrhoea, Vomiting, Nausea, Abdominal pain
Constipation, Dyspepsia, Abdominal distension
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, Gingival pain
Hepatobiliary disorders
Jaundice
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders
Rash, Pruritus, Alopecia
Urticaria, Erythema, Petechiae, Hyperhidrosis, Dry skin, Dermatitis
Skin depigmentation
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders
Arthralgia, Myalgia, Pain in extremity
Muscle spasms, Bone pain, Back pain, Neck pain
Trismus, Joint swelling
Renal and urinary disorders
Renal impairment, Dysuria, Haematuria
Reproductive system and breast disorders
Spontaneous penile erection
Menstrual disorder
General disorders and administration site conditions
Pyrexia, Fatigue, Influenza-like illness
Edema, Chest discomfort, Asthenia, Chest pain, Infusion site pain, Chills
Extravasation, Infusion site paraesthesia, Feeling hot
Investigations
Alanine aminotransferase increased, Aspartate aminotransferase increased, Gamma- glutamyltransferase increased, Haematocrit decreased, Haemoglobin decreased
Coombs test positivec
Injury, poisoning and procedural complication
Infusion-related reaction
Included Studies: Asthma (C07-002), aHUS(C08-002, C08-003, C10-003, C10-004), Dermatomyositis (C99-006), refractory gMG (C08-001, ECU-MG-301, ECU-MG-302, ECU-MG-303), Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder (ECU-NMO-301, ECU-NMO-302), IMG (C99-004, E99-004), PNH (C02-001, C04-001, C04-002, C06-002, C07-001, E02-001, E05-001, E07-001, M07-005, X03-001, X03-001A), Psoriasis (C99-007), RA (C01-004, C97-001, C99-001, E01-004, E99-001), STEC-HUS (C11-001), SLE (C97-002). MedDRA version 26.1.*See paragraph Description of selected adverse reactions.a Abscess includes the following group of PTs: Abscess limb, Colonic abscess, Renal abscess, Subcutaneous abscess, Tooth abscess, Liver abscess, Perirectal abscess, Rectal abscess.b Meningococcal infection includes the following group of PTs: Meningococcal infection, Meningococcal sepsis, Meningitis meningococcal.cADRs identified in post marketing reports
Description of selected adverse reactionsIn all clinical trials, the most serious adverse reaction was meningococcal sepsis which is a common presentation of meningococcal infections in patients treated with eculizumab (see section 4.4).Other cases of Neisseria species have been reported including sepsis with Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Neisseria sicca/subflava, Neisseria spp unspecified.
Antibodies to eculizumab were detected in patients. As with all proteins there is a potential for immunogenicity.
Cases of haemolysis have been reported in the setting of missed or delayed eculizumab dose in PNH clinical trials (see also section 4.4).
Cases of thrombotic microangiopathy complication have been reported in the setting of missed or delayed eculizumab dose in aHUS clinical trials.
Paediatric populationIn children and adolescent PNH patients (aged 11 years to less than 18 years) included in the paediatric PNH Study M07-005, the safety profile appeared similar to that observed in adult patients. The most common adverse reaction reported in paediatric patients was headache.
In paediatric aHUS patients (aged 2 months to less than 18 years) included in the aHUS studies C08-002, C08-003, C09-001r and C10-003, the safety profile appeared similar to that observed in adult aHUS patients. The safety profiles in the different paediatric subsets of age appear similar.
Other special populations
Elderly No overall differences in safety were reported between elderly (≥ 65 years) and younger refractory gMG patients (< 65 years) in eculizumab study.
Patients with other diseases Safety Data from Other Clinical trials Supportive safety data were obtained in 12 completed clinical trials that included 934 patients exposed to eculizumab in other disease populations other than PNH, aHUS, refractory gMG or NMOSD. There was an un-vaccinated patient diagnosed with idiopathic membranous glomerulonephropathy who experienced meningococcal meningitis. Adverse reactions reported in patients with disease other than PNH, aHUS, refractory gMG or NMOSD were similar to those reported in patients with PNH, aHUS, refractory gMG or NMOSD (see Table 2 above). No specific adverse reactions have emerged from these clinical trials.
Reporting of suspected adverse reactionsReporting suspected adverse reactions after authorisation of the medicinal product is important. It allows continued monitoring of the benefit/risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions via the Yellow Card Scheme Website: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store.
No case of overdose has been reported in any of the clinical studies.
Ask anything about Epysqli 300 mg concentrate for solution for infusion. The assistant answers only from this leaflet — if the leaflet does not cover it, it will say so. It does not give medical advice.
Answers come from the patient leaflet published on the electronic medicines compendium (emc). They are not medical advice. Ask a pharmacist or your GP if you are unsure. For urgent help call NHS 111, or 999 in an emergency.
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