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Glatiramer acetate (Copaxone) 💊
📖 About
Always check the BNF link here.
- 🎯 Immunomodulator used in relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS).
- Can reduce relapse frequency by ~30% in early treatment years.
- Self-administered by subcutaneous injection.
⚙️ Action
- Polypeptide that mimics myelin basic protein.
- Crosses the blood–brain barrier → alters immune response.
- Shifts immune balance toward Th2 anti-inflammatory cells, reducing demyelination.
💉 Indications
- Relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS).
- Not effective in progressive forms of MS.
🔄 Interactions
- No major interactions identified.
- ⚠️ Use caution if combined with other immunomodulators/immunosuppressants.
⚠️ Cautions
- Injection should only be given after patient training.
- Monitor for immediate post-injection reactions (flushing, chest tightness, dyspnoea).
- See BNF for full cautions.
⛔ Contraindications
- 🚫 Hypersensitivity to glatiramer acetate or mannitol.
💥 Side Effects
- 💉 Injection site reactions: erythema, pain, pruritus, lipoatrophy.
- 🫁 Dyspnoea, flushing, transient chest pain.
- ❤️ Palpitations, vasodilatation.
- 🦠 Lymphadenopathy, hypersensitivity reactions.
- 🩸 Rare: thrombocytopenia, arthralgia.
📊 Dose
- 20 mg SC once daily OR 40 mg SC three times per week (≥48 hrs apart).
- Keep refrigerated; allow to reach room temperature before injection.
| The content on this website is provided for educational and informational purposes only to support exam preparation (e.g., MLA, MRCP, USMLE) and learning. This is NOT medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or professional guidance. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional, official guidelines (e.g., NICE, GMC, BNF), or supervised clinical practice. Always verify information with current, authoritative sources. Makindo and its contributors accept no liability for any reliance on this content, including errors, omissions, or any resulting harm, loss, or consequences. By using this site, you agree to these terms. |
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