Health Library

Emapalumab-lzsg (By injection)

Emapalumab-lzsg (em-a-PAL-ue-mab - lzsg)

Treats primary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis.

Brand Name(s):

Gamifant

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your dose and schedule. This medicine is given through a needle placed in a vein. The medicine must be given slowly, so the needle will need to stay in place for at least 1 hour.
• A nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.
• You may also be given other medicines (including antibiotic, antiviral medicine, steroids) before infusion to prevent serious infections.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• This medicine may interfere with vaccines. Ask your doctor before you get a flu shot or any other vaccines. You should not receive live or live attenuated vaccines during treatment with this medicine and for at least 4 weeks after the last dose.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have any type of infection or a weak immune system.
• This medicine may increase your risk for serious infections and infusion reactions.
• You will need to have a skin test or blood test for tuberculosis (TB) before you start receiving this medicine. Tell your doctor if you or anyone in your home has ever had a positive TB skin test or has been exposed to TB.
• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Fever, chills, cough, stuffy or runny nose, sore throat, body aches, painful or difficult urination
• Skin rash or redness, increased sweating, headache, dizziness, swelling of the face, trouble breathing

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Constipation, diarrhea, stomach pain
• Irritability
• Pain, itching, burning, swelling, or a lump under your skin where the needle is placed
• Vomiting

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 9/6/2024