Alefacept injection

What is this medicine?

ALEFACEPT (a la FA cept) is used to treat adult patients with moderate or severe chronic plaque psoriasis.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for injection into a muscle or infusion into a vein. It is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• breathing problems

• chest pain or tightness

• dark urine

• severe stomach pain

• signs of infection like fever, chills, or sore throat

• unusual bleeding or bruising

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• cough

• dizziness

• headache

• muscle ache or pain

• nausea

• pain at site where injected

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

• medicines that suppress the immune system

• phototherapy like methoxsalen, porfimer, and aminolevulinic acid

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

• vaccines

What if I miss a dose?

It is important not to miss your dose. Call your doctor or health care professional if you are unable to keep an appointment.

Where should I keep my medicine?

This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:

• cancer

• fever or infection

• immune system problems

• an unusual or allergic reaction to alefacept, any human or hamster proteins, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for checks on your progress. Tell your doctor or healthcare professional if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse. You will need to have regular blood checks. The side effects of the medicine can continue after you finish your treatment. Promptly report any side effects.

This medicine may increase your risk of getting an infection. Stay away from people who are sick. See your doctor if you get an infection.

Do not become pregnant while taking this medicine and for 8 weeks after stopping the medicine. Women should inform their doctor if they wish to become pregnant or think they might be pregnant. There is a potential for serious side effects to an unborn child. Talk to your health care professional or pharmacist for more information.