Often used for:
Decreasing pain episodes in sickle cell disease
What is crizanlizumab?
Crizanlizumab is a monoclonal antibody that helps prevent blood cells from sticking together by attaching to the protein P-selectin. It is used to decrease pain episodes, known as vaso-occlusive crises (VOCs), in patients ages 16 and older with sickle cell disease.
Possible side effects
- Nausea
- Stomach discomfort
- Joint pain
- Back pain
- Infusion-related reactions: Symptoms may include pain, fever, chills, shortness of breath, sweating, dizziness, upset stomach, diarrhea, and itching during the infusion or within 24 hours
- Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include rash, hives, itching, chills, fever, headache, muscle ache, shortness of breath, coughing, tightness in the throat, and swelling of the face or neck
- Not all patients who receive crizanlizumab will experience these side effects, and there may be others. Some side effects can be severe. Report any symptoms or side effects to your doctor or pharmacist.
Tips for patients and families
- Discuss all questions and instructions with your doctor or pharmacist.
- Some patients may receive other medicines to reduce infusion reactions.
- Inform the care team about any symptoms during or after the infusion; some reactions require immediate care.
- Tell the care team about all medicines, vitamins, and supplements being taken.
- Let the care team know if the patient is sexually active, pregnant, or breastfeeding; the effects during pregnancy are unknown.
