There are some diseases that are difficult to control with ordinary medicines. Especially conditions like arthritis that are caused by certain problems in our own immune system, or some rare diseases that cause frequent fevers, fall into this category. So, in times like these, doctors use more specialized, powerful medicines. One such medicine is Canakinumab. This is given as a vaccine.
What is Canakinumab?
Simply put, canakinumab is a drug that changes the way our body's immune system works to some extent and controls symptoms. It is not a cure, but it can help you control the disease and live a normal life.
This medicine is mainly used for the following conditions:
- Some types of arthritis in children and adults: For example, conditions like Still's disease.
- Rare, Periodic Fever Syndromes: These are known by somewhat more complicated names. For example:
- Cryopyrin-Associated Periodic Syndromes (CAPS)
- Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor Associated Periodic Syndrome (TRAPS)
- Hyperimmunoglobulin D syndrome (HIDS)
- Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF)
The most important thing is that only the specialist who examines your condition can decide whether or not to use this medicine and how long to take it.
Things you need to tell your doctor before starting this treatment
Since this is a very powerful medication, it is imperative that you inform your doctor about your complete health history before starting treatment. Don't ignore it, thinking it's something minor. Because even that minor thing can affect your treatment.
| Tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions: | Why is that important? |
|---|---|
| A current or recent infection (e.g., chickenpox, herpes, cold sores) | Because this medicine reduces immunity, infections can become more severe. |
| Tuberculosis , a positive skin test for tuberculosis, or close contact with a person with tuberculosis. | Before starting medication, you should be tested for tuberculosis and, if necessary, begin treatment. |
| Other immune system problems , HIV or AIDS. | You should be more careful when using this medicine in such conditions. |
| Having a history of cancer . | Your doctor should be aware of this. |
| Conditions such as low white blood cell count . | This condition can be further affected by medication. |
| Being pregnant or trying to get pregnant. | Talk to your doctor about the effects of this medication during pregnancy. |
| Breastfeeding the baby. | You should discuss with your doctor whether the medicine will affect the baby through breast milk. |
| Having recently received a vaccine or being scheduled to receive one in the future. | In particular, live virus vaccines cannot be taken with this medicine. |
| Having an allergy to other medicines, foods or substances. | This is important to confirm whether you are allergic to canakinumab or any of its ingredients. |
How do you use this medicine?
This is not a medicine you can take home and give yourself. This is an injection under the skin. It is usually given by a trained doctor or nurse in a hospital or clinic .
Before each treatment, you will be given a special information leaflet (MedGuide) about this medicine. It is important to read and understand it carefully each time.
Should this medicine be given to children?
For some selected conditions, this medicine may be prescribed to children as young as 2 years old. However, this decision is made by a pediatrician. If you are giving this medicine to a child, be sure to discuss it thoroughly with your doctor.
What if I take too much medicine?
This is unlikely to happen as it is given in a hospital setting. However, if you think you have taken too much of this medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Other medications that may interact with this medicine
It is very important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (including vitamins and traditional medicines), as some medications can interact with this one.
| Do not take canakinumab with these at all. | |
|---|---|
| Biological medicines | Eg: adalimumab, anakinra, certolizumab, etanercept, golimumab, infliximab |
| Live virus vaccines | E.g. Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), chickenpox vaccine |
| Tell your doctor as there may be interactions with these. | |
| Other drugs that suppress immunity | abatacept, baricitinib, rilonacept, rituximab, sarilumab, tocilizumab, tofactinib |
| Warfarin | A medicine given to prevent blood clotting |
Things to keep in mind when taking medication
- Watch out for infections: This medicine suppresses your immune system, making you more likely to get infections. So, if you experience symptoms like fever, chills, sore throat, cough, or runny nose , don't just treat yourself. Call your doctor right away for advice. Try to stay away from people who are sick.
- Tuberculosis (TB) testing: You will be tested for tuberculosis (TB) before starting treatment. If your doctor prescribes medication for TB, you will need to start taking that medication before starting canakinumab. And you will need to take the medication for the full prescribed period.
- Medical supervision: Your doctor will continue to monitor your condition while you are taking this medicine. He or she will also order blood tests if necessary. If your symptoms do not improve or worsen, tell your doctor .
What side effects might I experience?
Like any medication, this one can have side effects. Some are serious, some are common. The important thing is to be aware of these and take action quickly if necessary.
| Serious side effects that you should report to your doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| Difficulty breathing | Shortness of breath, chest tightness. |
| Changes in heart rate | Feeling like your heart is beating fast or irregularly. |
| Dizziness or fainting | Feeling dizzy, feeling lifeless, falling. |
| Signs of an infection | Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, pain when urinating. |
| Skin swelling, redness, or warmth | Especially somewhere other than the injection site. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to your doctor if they persist: | |
| Diarrhea | Headache |
| Nausea and vomiting | Runny nose, like a cold |
| Dizziness | Pain, redness, or slight swelling at the injection site |
This list does not include all possible side effects. If you experience anything unusual, don't be afraid to talk to your doctor about it.
Take-Home Message
- Canakinumab is a powerful vaccine used to treat immune-related diseases such as arthritis and some rare inflammatory conditions.
- Before starting this treatment, it is imperative that you inform your doctor about all your medical conditions and all medications you are taking.
- This medication increases the risk of infection, so always be aware of symptoms such as fever, cough, and sore throat.
- If you experience any serious side effects, such as difficulty breathing or severe allergic reactions, seek medical advice immediately.
- Maintain regular contact with your doctor. Don't skip medication appointments. Discuss any concerns with them.
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