Ilaris (Canakinumab)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Ilaris Used For?
Ilaris is a medication that contains canakinumab, which is used to manage several auto-inflammatory diseases.
Primary Uses
Ilaris is used to treat Cryopyrin-Associated Periodic Syndromes (CAPS), Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor Associated Periodic Syndrome (TRAPS), Hyperimmunoglobulin D Syndrome (HIDS)/Mevalonate Kinase Deficiency (MKD), Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF), and Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (sJIA).
How It Works
Ilaris works by blocking the activity of interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta), a substance that is elevated in inflammatory diseases, thereby reducing symptoms associated with these conditions.
Good to know: Ilaris is not addictive.
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How to Take Ilaris
Ilaris is administered as a subcutaneous injection, meaning it is injected just under the skin.
Dosage Instructions
For CAPS, the starting dose is 150 mg for patients over 40 kg, 2 mg/kg for those between 15 kg and 40 kg, and 4 mg/kg for those aged 2 to less than 4 years with a body weight of 7.5 kg or more. For TRAPS, HIDS/MKD, and FMF, the recommended starting dose is also 150 mg for those over 40 kg and 2 mg/kg for those 40 kg or less. For sJIA, the dose is 4 mg/kg (up to 300 mg) every 4 weeks.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for advice on how to proceed.
Important: Do not exceed the recommended dose.
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- symptoms of a viral infection or bronchitis
- redness, pain, or itching at the injection site
- sore throat
- runny or blocked nose
- sneezing
- dizziness
- vaginal yeast infection
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- spontaneous bleeding or bruising
- fever
- cough
- difficulty or painful breathing
- persistent cough
- weight loss
- flu-like symptoms
- allergic reactions such as rash, itching, or hives
- swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- nausea
- palpitations
- burning sensation on urination
- fever lasting longer than three days
Important Warnings
There are several important warnings to consider before taking Ilaris.
Who Should Not Take Ilaris
Do not use Ilaris if you are allergic to canakinumab or any of its ingredients.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss with your doctor if you have a history of infections, neutropenia, or macrophage activation syndrome (MAS).
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Ilaris is not recommended during pregnancy unless necessary. It is also not advised while breastfeeding as it is unknown if it passes into breast milk.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Ilaris and affect its efficacy.
- Live vaccines
- TNF inhibitors (e.g., etanercept, adalimumab, infliximab)
Alcohol & Driving
There are no specific warnings regarding alcohol consumption or driving while taking Ilaris mentioned in the source.
Storage
Store Ilaris in a refrigerator at temperatures between 2°C to 8°C. Do not freeze it and keep it protected from light.
Overdose Information
In case of an overdose, seek immediate medical attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
The onset of action may vary, and it is best to consult your doctor for specific timelines.
There are no specific instructions regarding food interactions with Ilaris.
No, Ilaris is not considered addictive.
Consult your doctor before stopping Ilaris to discuss any potential effects.
There are no specific warnings about alcohol consumption while taking Ilaris.
Weight gain is not mentioned as a side effect of Ilaris.
Consult your doctor regarding the safety of Ilaris for elderly patients.
Contact your doctor for advice on how to proceed if you miss a dose.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.