KEVZARA (sarilumab) 200mg injection

Kevzara (sarilumab) is a prescription medication used primarily for the treatment of moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis in adults. It is a monoclonal antibody that specifically targets and inhibits interleukin-6 (IL-6) receptors. IL-6 is a pro-inflammatory cytokine involved in the inflammation and joint damage associated with rheumatoid arthritis.

How It Works

Kevzara is designed to block the activity of IL-6, a key driver of inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis. By inhibiting IL-6 receptor signaling, Kevzara reduces the inflammatory response and helps alleviate symptoms such as pain, swelling, and joint damage. This action helps to improve overall joint function and quality of life for patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Mechanism of Action:

1. Targeting IL-6 Receptors: Sarilumab binds to both soluble and membrane-bound IL-6 receptors, preventing IL-6 from attaching and activating these receptors.
2. Inhibition of IL-6 Mediated Inflammation: By blocking IL-6 receptor activity, Kevzara inhibits the inflammatory cascade that leads to joint damage and disease progression.
3. Reduction of Symptoms: The reduction in inflammation helps to decrease pain, swelling, and joint damage, improving physical function and overall well-being.

Side Effects

Kevzara, like other medications that modulate the immune system, can have side effects. Some of these may be serious and require medical attention.

Common Side Effects:

• Infection: Increased risk of infections due to immune system suppression.
• Headache: Patients may experience headaches.
• Injection Site Reactions: Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site.
• Elevated Liver Enzymes: Indications of liver dysfunction may occur.

Serious Side Effects:

• Severe Infections: Patients are at a higher risk of developing serious infections, including tuberculosis and bacterial, fungal, or viral infections.
• Gastrointestinal Perforations: Rare but serious, including stomach or intestinal perforations.
• Liver Toxicity: Significant liver problems, including hepatitis.
• Low Blood Cell Counts: Reduction in white blood cells, red blood cells, or platelets.
• Allergic Reactions: Severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis.

Indications

Kevzara is approved for specific indications related to rheumatoid arthritis.

Approved Indications:

1. Moderate to Severe Rheumatoid Arthritis: For adults with rheumatoid arthritis who have had an inadequate response to one or more disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs).
2. Combination Therapy: It can be used alone or in combination with methotrexate or other DMARDs to improve symptoms and slow disease progression.

Contraindications

Kevzara should not be used in certain conditions or populations due to potential risks and contraindications.

Contraindications:

1. Hypersensitivity to Sarilumab: Individuals with known hypersensitivity to sarilumab or any of its components should not use this medication.
2. Active Infection: Patients with active infections, including tuberculosis or other severe infections, should avoid using Kevzara.
3. Severe Liver Disease: Patients with severe liver impairment should not use Kevzara due to the risk of liver toxicity.
4. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of Kevzara during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established; thus, it should be used only if clearly needed and under medical supervision.

Price in Different Countries

The cost of Kevzara 200 mg Injection varies by country and may be influenced by local healthcare systems and insurance coverage. Below is a table showing approximate prices in different countries, along with references for further information.

Country	Price (Per Injection)	Reference
United States	$3,200 – $3,500	GoodRx
United Kingdom	£2,500 – £3,000	NHS
Australia	AUD $4,000 – $4,500	PBS Australia
India	INR ₹250,000 – ₹300,000	1MG
Canada	CAD $3,800 – $4,200	Canada Pharmacy

Top 5 Global Brands

Kevzara is developed and marketed by Regeneron Pharmaceuticals and Sanofi. It is part of a competitive market where several global pharmaceutical companies are leading in the development of advanced therapies for rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.

1. Regeneron Pharmaceuticals

• Regeneron is known for its innovative approaches in biotechnology and has developed several groundbreaking therapies, including Kevzara.

2. Sanofi

• A global healthcare leader, Sanofi collaborates with Regeneron and focuses on developing medications for a wide range of medical conditions, including autoimmune diseases.

3. Roche

• Roche is a major player in immunology and oncology, known for its therapies for rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune disorders.

4. AbbVie

• AbbVie is a global biopharmaceutical company with a strong presence in immunology, including drugs for rheumatoid arthritis such as Humira.

5. Pfizer

• Pfizer develops and markets a range of medications for various diseases, including autoimmune disorders and inflammatory diseases.