Kevzara

[donnalouisec]

Morning

Has anybody had any experience with Kevzara? It’s relatively new drug that works by inhibiting interleukin 6, very similar to tocizilumab I’m told (which I was on previously).

I’m a little confused as to why they have started me on this drug if it works the same as tocizilumab as I had to come off that due to neutropenia & frequent hospitalisation. Anyway it’s a fortnightly injection which you give yourself. I’ve just had my 3rd dose this morning & been for my first set of bloods so fingers crossed they come back ok because this is the last drug for me.

Would love to hear from anyone who’s tried or is taking this.

Thanks

Donna x

[oldtimer]

Sarilumab (Kevzara) has only been approved recently (end of last year, I think). I don't remember seeing any previous posts on here from anyone using it, but your post may bring them out of the woodwork!

[Hessie5]

Hi Donna - just wondered how you are getting on with this biologic as my Rheumy prescribed me this one as Xeljanz was not working. Now my fourth biologic!

[L-DL]

I have been on Kevzara since last November as I reacted very badly to everything else. The injections are pretty much painless and I am now seeing a massive improvement. The only downside is that if you get any sort of infection, it hangs around a lot longer. If you're prone to cold sores, they are also harder to clear up (try an antiviral cream called Zovirax which is available over the counter). If you get an infection, you have to stop the injections until you're clear again. I had a head cold and throat infection that took 2 weeks to go. On balance, I think it's worth it. My injections are delivered each month.