Let's learn about Cladribine tablets for Multiple Sclerosis (MS)?

If you or someone in your family has a condition like Multiple Sclerosis (MS), it's normal to feel a little nervous and curious when starting a new medication. Especially when learning about a medication like Cladribine, you may want to know how it works and what to be aware of. So today, let's talk about this medication, just like you would talk to a friend.

What is Cladribine?

Simply put, Cladribine is a medication used to treat people with a condition called Multiple Sclerosis (MS) . It comes in pill form. You may know it by the brand name `MAVENCLAD`.

Now let's see what happens. MS is a long-term disease that affects our nervous system. Sometimes, the symptoms can suddenly get worse. We call this a relapse. So what this Cladribine drug does is help prevent the disease from getting worse again.

Things you need to tell your doctor before starting this medication

Before your doctor prescribes this medicine, he or she needs to have a complete picture of your health condition. This medicine is not suitable for everyone. Therefore, if you have any of the following conditions, be sure to inform your doctor about it.

• Cancer status: If you currently have cancer or have had it in the past.
• HIV or AIDS: Conditions that reduce immunity.
• Other immune system problems: Any condition that reduces your body's ability to fight disease (immunity).
• Current infections: Any infection, especially viral infections like chickenpox or herpes.
• Kidney or liver disease: These organs are responsible for filtering and removing drugs from the body, so it's important to know if there's a problem with their function.
• Low blood cell count: Low levels of white blood cells, red blood cells, or platelets.
• If you have recently received a vaccine or are scheduled to receive one in the future.
• If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
• If you are a mother who is breastfeeding.
• If you have an allergic reaction to cladribine or any other medicine, food, or dye.

It is very important for your own safety to tell the doctor without hiding these things.

How should I use the medicine?

The way to use this is very simple.

• Swallow this pill with a glass of water.
• It can be taken before or after meals. If you experience stomach upset, it is best to take it with food.
• Take the exact dose as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more than the prescribed amount.
• Do not stop taking the medication suddenly without medical advice.

Your doctor will give you a special information leaflet (MedGuide) about this medicine. Please read it carefully when you receive it.

What to do if the dose increases?

If you think you have taken too much medicine, go to a hospital's Emergency Unit (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.

What if I miss a dose of medicine?

It is not a good idea to skip doses of this medication. If you do, talk to your doctor for advice on what to do.

Other medications that may interact with this medicine (Interactions)

Cladribine is a medication that can interact with some other medications, so you should tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (prescribed, over-the-counter, herbal products, vitamins).

Important: This is not a complete list, so it is important to tell your doctor about everything you are taking.

Things to be especially careful about when taking medication

You need to be a little more careful about your health while taking this medicine.

Risk of developing infections

Cladribine can slightly weaken your immune system. This means you are more likely to get infections easily. So if you have symptoms like fever, chills, sore throat, or cough , do not self-medicate and talk to your doctor. Try to stay away from people who are sick.

Risk of serious infection affecting the brain

Very rarely, some patients may develop a serious infection of the brain (PML - Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy) due to this medicine. This can be life-threatening. Therefore, if you experience any symptoms such as changes in vision, difficulty thinking, slurred speech, difficulty walking or standing, or loss of balance, tell your doctor immediately. If you cannot reach him, seek other medical help immediately.

Be careful about vaccines.

This medicine may make your body less responsive to vaccines. If you need to receive any vaccines, tell your doctor that you are taking cladribine.

Special advice about pregnancy and having children

This is very important.

• Women: Avoid becoming pregnant while taking this medication and for 6 months after stopping the medication.
• Men: If you are taking this medicine, avoid fathering a child while taking the medicine and for 6 months after stopping.

This is because this medicine may cause serious harm to an unborn baby. Ask your doctor for more information about this.

What are the possible side effects?

Like any medicine, cladribine can cause side effects. Some are serious, while others are common.

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