IMPORTANT WARNING:
Iptacopan may increase the risk that you will develop a meningococcal infection (an infection that may affect the covering of the brain and spinal cord and may spread through the bloodstream) or other serious infections during your treatment or for some time afterward. These infections may cause death in a short period of time. You will need to receive certain vaccines at least 2 weeks before you begin your treatment with iptacopan to decrease the risk that you will develop this type of infection. If you have received these vaccines in the past, you may need to receive a booster dose before you begin your treatment. If your doctor feels that you need to begin treatment with iptacopan right away, you will receive your vaccines as soon as possible but will need to take an antibiotic for a period of time.
Even if you receive vaccines for certain bacterial infections, there is still a risk that you may develop serious infections during or after your treatment with iptacopan. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately or get emergency medical help: headache that comes along with nausea or vomiting, fever, a stiff neck, or a stiff back; fever of 103°F (39.4°C) or higher; rash and fever; fever with chest pain, rapid heartbeat, cough, shortness of breath, or fast breathing; confusion; muscle aches and other flu-like symptoms; or if your eyes are sensitive to light.
Tell your doctor if you have fever or other signs of infection before you begin your treatment with iptacopan. Your doctor may tell you not to take iptacopan if you have a certain type of infection.
Your doctor will give you a patient safety card with information about the risk of developing serious infections during or for a period of time after your treatment. Carry this card with you at all times during your treatment and for 2 weeks after your treatment. Show the card to all healthcare providers who treat you so that they will know about your risk.
A program called Fabhalta REMS has been set up to decrease the risks of taking iptacopan. You will only be able to take iptacopan if the doctor who prescribes your medication is enrolled in the program, has talked to you about the risks of serious infections, has given you a patient safety card, and has made sure that you received certain vaccinations. You can also only receive the medication from a pharmacy that participates in the program. Ask your doctor if you have any questions about participating in the program or how to get your medication.
Your doctor or pharmacist will give you the manufacturer's patient information sheet (Medication Guide) when you begin treatment with iptacopan and each time you refill your prescription. Read the information carefully and ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions. You can also visit the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) website (http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/ucm085729.htm) or the manufacturer's website to obtain the Medication Guide.
Talk to your doctor about the risks of taking iptacopan.