Nucala (mepolizumab 100 mg) is a
Prescription Medicine, available as a 100 mg powder for
injection (100 mg/
mL after reconstitution) and as a 100 mg/mL pre-filled pen (auto-injector).
Nucala is used as an add-on treatment
for; severe eosinophilic asthma in patients 12 years and over, severe chronic rhinosinusitis
with nasal polyps
(CRSwNP) with an inadequate response to intranasal corticosteroids in adult patients 18
years and older,
relapsing or refractory Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (EGPA) in adult
patients aged 18 years and
over, and in adult patients with inadequately controlled hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES)
without an
identifiable non-haematologic secondary cause.
Nucala is
given by injection under your skin (subcutaneous).
Nucala
is fully funded for severe eosinophilic asthma only; Special Authority criteria apply.
Use strictly as
directed. Nucala has risks and benefits. Do not stop
taking your other asthma medications including inhaled
and /or oral steroid asthma medications. Tell your doctor if:
you have a parasitic (helminth) infection; you are
taking prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements; you
are pregnant or plan
to become pregnant; you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.
Nucala does not treat acute asthma
symptoms, such as sudden asthma attack. Tell your healthcare professional or get emergency
help immediately if
you have any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction: swelling of your face,
mouth, and tongue,
breathing problems, fainting, dizziness, feeling light-headed (low blood pressure), rash or
hives.
Side effects:
headache, injection site reactions (pain, redness, swelling, itching, or a burning feeling
at the injection site), back
pain, and fatigue.
Serious side effects may include allergic
(hypersensitivity) reactions, including anaphylaxis.
Serious allergic reactions can happen after you get your injection of
Nucala. Allergic reactions can sometimes
happen hours or days after you get a dose of
Nucala. Herpes zoster infections that can cause shingles have
happened in people who received Nucala.
If symptoms continue or you have side effects, see your doctor,
pharmacist or health care professional.
For more information, see Nucala Consumer Medicine Information at
www.medsafe.govt.nz. Ask your doctor if
Nucala is right for you. Normal doctor's charges apply.
This website is intended for residents of New Zealand only.