 Taking rilonacept (Arcalyst)
Dear Patient,
Your health care provider has prescribed rilonacept for the treatment of your cryopyrin-associated periodic syndromes. This drug acts as a decoy to prevent the interaction of interleukin-1 with cell surface receptors, blocking the inflammation that causes. The brand name of this drug is Arcalyst.
How you will take Arcalyst
You’ll need two subcutaneous injections of Arcalyst, at different sites on your body, for the beginning or loading dose. After that, you’ll inject one dose, subcutaneously, each week.
What to do if you miss a dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember up to the day before your next scheduled dose. The next dose should be taken at the regularly scheduled time. Don’t double up doses.
What to do about side effects
Notify your health care provider if you experiences side effects to this medication.
Common: injection site reactions, upper respiratory infections
Less common: serious infections, allergic reactions
What you must know about other medications
You shouldn’t take this drug with other drugs that block interleukins or tumor necrosis factor (anakinra, etanercept, adalimumab, infliximab) or corticosteroids; serious infection could occur. You shouldn’t receive live vaccinations while on this drug; check with your health care provider and have any vaccinations that you need before you start treatment with Arcalyst. Tell any health care provider who takes care of you that you’re taking this drug.
Special directions
- You and a significant other should learn to prepare and administer subcutaneous injections.
- Store the Arcalyst in the box it came in, in the refrigerator. You may store it at room temperature for up to 3 hours once you have mixed it. Protect from light.
- Alternate injection sites each week; keep a chart so you remember which site you used last.
- Dispose of the needles and syringes properly, in a puncture resistant container.
- This drug may change your cholesterol and triglyceride levels; you may need periodic blood tests to monitor this effect.
Keep in mind
- You may be at increased risk for infection; avoid crowded areas or people you know are ill.
- It’s unknown if this drug could affect a fetus. You should use contraceptive measures while you’re on this drug. If you should become pregnant while taking this drug, consult with your health care provider.
- It’s unknown how this drug could affect a nursing baby. Consult with your health care provider if you are nursing a baby.
- Notify your health care provider if you develop fever, signs of infection, trouble breathing, or a swollen face.
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