CLASSES

Anti-Rheumtic Monoclonal Antibodies
Interleukin-6 (IL-6) Inhibitors

BOXED WARNING

Patients who receive sarilumab are at increased risk for developing serious infections that may lead to hospitalization or death. Infections include active tuberculosis and invasive fungal infections including candidiasis and pneumocystis. Bacterial, viral, and other infections due to opportunistic pathogens have been reported. Most patients who developed serious infections were taking concomitant immunosuppressants such as methotrexate or corticosteroids. Patients with an invasive fungal infection may present with disseminated disease, and tuberculosis may present as pulmonary or extrapulmonary disease. Evaluate patients for tuberculosis risk factors before starting sarilumab. Also, test patients for latent tuberculosis before and during sarilumab receipt. Initiate treatment for latent infection before sarilumab use. Consider anti-tuberculosis therapy prior to sarilumab initiation for 2 patient groups: patients with a past history of latent or active tuberculosis in whom an adequate course of treatment cannot be confirmed and patients with a negative test for latent tuberculosis but with risk factors for tuberculosis infection. Consultation with a physician with expertise in the treatment of tuberculosis is recommended to aid in the decision whether initiating anti-tuberculosis therapy is appropriate for an individual patient. Carefully consider the risks and benefits of sarilumab before initiating therapy in patients with chronic or recurrent infection, who have been exposed to tuberculosis, with a history of a serious or opportunistic infection, with underlying conditions that may predispose them to infection (e.g., patients with advanced or uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, or immunosuppression), or who have resided or traveled in areas of endemic tuberculosis or endemic mycoses. Sarilumab initiation is not recommended for patients with an absolute neutrophil count (ANC) less than 2,000/mm3, sarilumab discontinuation is advised for an ANC less than 500/mm3, and sarilumab interruption is advised for an ANC between 500/mm3 and 1,000/mm3. Closely monitor patients for the development of signs and symptoms of infection during and after sarilumab treatment; signs and symptoms of acute inflammation may be lessened due to suppression of the acute phase reactants. Consider the possible development of tuberculosis in patients who tested negative for latent tuberculosis infection prior to taking sarilumab. Viral reactivation has been observed during immunosuppressive biologic therapies. Do not administer sarilumab to a patient with an active infection including localized infections. If a serious infection such as sepsis or influenza or an opportunistic infection develops, interrupt sarilumab receipt until the infection is controlled. If a new infection develops during sarilumab receipt, complete a prompt and complete diagnostic workup appropriate for an immunocompromised patient, initiate appropriate antimicrobial therapy, and closely monitor the patient.

DEA CLASS

Rx

DESCRIPTION

Injectable interleukin-6 (IL-6) receptor antagonist
Used for the treatment of moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis in adults who have had an inadequate response or are intolerant to 1 or more DMARDs
Boxed warning for increased risk of developing serious infections during therapy

COMMON BRAND NAMES

KEVZARA

HOW SUPPLIED

KEVZARA Subcutaneous Inj Sol: 1mL, 131.6mg, 175.4mg

DOSAGE & INDICATIONS

†Indicates off-label use

MAXIMUM DOSAGE

200 mg/dose subcutaneously every 2 weeks; investigational doses of 400 mg IV have been used for COVID-19.

200 mg/dose subcutaneously every 2 weeks; investigational doses of 400 mg IV have been used for COVID-19.

Safety and efficacy have not been established.

Safety and efficacy have not been established.

Safety and efficacy have not been established.

DOSING CONSIDERATIONS

Prior to treatment initiation: Do not initiate treatment with sarilumab if baseline AST/ALT is more than 1.5 times the upper limit of normal (ULN).
 
Hepatic enzyme elevations occurring during treatment:
AST and/or ALT up to 3 times the ULN or less: Dose modify concomitant DMARDs, if appropriate.
AST and/or ALT greater than 3 times the ULN up to 5 times the ULN, confirmed by repeat testing: Interrupt sarilumab dosing until AST/ALT is less than 3 times the ULN. Then, resume sarilumab at 150 mg subcutaneously every 2 weeks and then increase to 200 mg subcutaneously every 2 weeks as clinically appropriate. If liver enzymes are persistently elevated, consider treatment discontinuation.
AST and/or ALT greater than 5 times the ULN: Discontinue sarilumab.

CrCl 30 mL/minute or more: No dosage adjustment needed.
CrCl less than 30 mL/minute: Sarilumab has not been studied in patients with severe renal impairment.

ADMINISTRATION

Available only as a subcutaneous formulation.
Visually inspect parenteral products for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration whenever solution and container permit. The injection solution should be clear and colorless to pale yellow. Do not use the injection if it is cloudy, discolored or contains particles, or if any part of the prefilled syringe or prefilled pen appears to be damaged.

STORAGE

KEVZARA:
- Discard product if it contains particulate matter, is cloudy, or discolored
- Do not expose product to temperatures above 77 degrees F
- Do not freeze
- Product must be used within 14 days after removal from refrigeration to room temperature (77 degrees F)
- Protect from light
- Refrigerate (between 36 and 46 degrees F)
- Store in carton

CONTRAINDICATIONS / PRECAUTIONS

Sarilumab is contraindicated for use in patients with known hypersensitivity to sarilumab or any of its inactive ingredients. Hypersensitivity reactions were reported in sarilumab clinical trials.

Patients who receive sarilumab are at increased risk for developing serious infections that may lead to hospitalization or death. Infections include active tuberculosis and invasive fungal infections including candidiasis and pneumocystis. Bacterial, viral, and other infections due to opportunistic pathogens have been reported. Most patients who developed serious infections were taking concomitant immunosuppressants such as methotrexate or corticosteroids. Patients with an invasive fungal infection may present with disseminated disease, and tuberculosis may present as pulmonary or extrapulmonary disease. Evaluate patients for tuberculosis risk factors before starting sarilumab. Also, test patients for latent tuberculosis before and during sarilumab receipt. Initiate treatment for latent infection before sarilumab use. Consider anti-tuberculosis therapy prior to sarilumab initiation for 2 patient groups: patients with a past history of latent or active tuberculosis in whom an adequate course of treatment cannot be confirmed and patients with a negative test for latent tuberculosis but with risk factors for tuberculosis infection. Consultation with a physician with expertise in the treatment of tuberculosis is recommended to aid in the decision whether initiating anti-tuberculosis therapy is appropriate for an individual patient. Carefully consider the risks and benefits of sarilumab before initiating therapy in patients with chronic or recurrent infection, who have been exposed to tuberculosis, with a history of a serious or opportunistic infection, with underlying conditions that may predispose them to infection (e.g., patients with advanced or uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, or immunosuppression), or who have resided or traveled in areas of endemic tuberculosis or endemic mycoses. Sarilumab initiation is not recommended for patients with an absolute neutrophil count (ANC) less than 2,000/mm3, sarilumab discontinuation is advised for an ANC less than 500/mm3, and sarilumab interruption is advised for an ANC between 500/mm3 and 1,000/mm3. Closely monitor patients for the development of signs and symptoms of infection during and after sarilumab treatment; signs and symptoms of acute inflammation may be lessened due to suppression of the acute phase reactants. Consider the possible development of tuberculosis in patients who tested negative for latent tuberculosis infection prior to taking sarilumab. Viral reactivation has been observed during immunosuppressive biologic therapies. Do not administer sarilumab to a patient with an active infection including localized infections. If a serious infection such as sepsis or influenza or an opportunistic infection develops, interrupt sarilumab receipt until the infection is controlled. If a new infection develops during sarilumab receipt, complete a prompt and complete diagnostic workup appropriate for an immunocompromised patient, initiate appropriate antimicrobial therapy, and closely monitor the patient.

Initiation of sarilumab therapy is not recommended in patients with thrombocytopenia defined as a platelet count less than 150,000/mm3 or for neutropenia defined as an absolute neutrophil count (ANC) below 2,000/mm3. Thrombocytopenia and neutropenia have occurred with sarilumab, and drug interruption, dose reduction, or discontinuation may be needed. Assess platelet count and ANC before sarilumab receipt, 4 to 8 weeks after sarilumab initiation, and every 3 months thereafter.

Sarilumab is not recommended in patients with active hepatic disease or hepatic impairment. Initiation of sarilumab is not recommended in patients who have ALT or AST more than 1.5 times the upper limit of normal (ULN). Hepatic enzyme elevations observed in clinical trials with sarilumab did not result in any clinically evident hepatic injury. Elevated transaminases have been noted with sarilumab, and drug interruption, dose reduction, or discontinuation may be needed. Assess liver function tests (LFTs) before sarilumab receipt, 4 to 8 weeks after start of therapy, and every 3 months thereafter. Consider assessing other liver function tests such as bilirubin when clinically indicated. The safety and efficacy of sarilumab have not been studied in patients with hepatic impairment including patients with positive hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV) serology. The risk of hepatitis B reactivation with sarilumab is unknown since patients who were at risk for reactivation were excluded from clinical trials.

Gastrointestinal (GI) perforations have been reported in clinical studies, primarily as complications of diverticulitis. Use with caution in patients with diverticulitis. GI perforation risk may be increased with concurrent diverticulitis or concomitant use of NSAIDs or in those receiving corticosteroid therapy. Promptly evaluate patients presenting with new onset abdominal symptoms.

Sarilumab is an immunosuppressant; therefore, sarilumab may affect host defenses against neoplastic disease. The impact of sarilumab on the development of malignancies is unknown, but malignancies were observed in clinical studies. Consider the risks and benefits of sarilumab before treatment initiation in patients with a known malignancy. Also, consider the risks and benefits of sarilumab continuation in patients who develop a malignancy.

Cautious use of sarilumab may be warranted for patients with hyperlipidemia, hypercholesterolemia, or hypertriglyceridemia. Increased total cholesterol, increased HDL-C, increased LDL-C, and increased triglycerides may occur with sarilumab. Assess lipid parameters approximately 4 to 8 weeks after sarilumab initiation and subsequently at approximately 6 month intervals. Manage patients according to clinical guidelines [e.g., National Cholesterol Educational Program (NCEP)] for the management of hyperlipidemia.

Live virus vaccines should not be given concurrently with sarilumab due to the potential increase in risk of infection. The safety of live virus vaccination in patients receiving sarilumab has not been established. No data exist on the secondary transmission of infection from persons receiving live vaccines to patients receiving sarilumab. The interval between live vaccinations and initiation of sarilumab should be in accordance with current vaccination guidelines regarding immunosuppressive agents.

Limited available data are not sufficient to determine whether the use of sarilumab during human pregnancy is associated with risk for major birth defects or miscarriage. Monoclonal antibodies, like sarilumab, are increasingly transported across the placenta as pregnancy progresses, with the largest amount transferred during the third trimester. This may affect immune response in the in utero exposed infant. Concentrations of immunoglobulin G (IgG), in response to antigen challenge, may be reduced in the fetus/infant of treated mothers. Consider risks and benefits prior to administering live or live-attenuated vaccines to neonates or infants who were exposed to sarilumab in utero. In an animal reproduction study, consisting of a combined embryo-fetal and pre- and postnatal development study with monkeys that received intravenous administration of sarilumab, there was no evidence of embryotoxicity or fetal malformations with exposures up to approximately 84 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD). Animal data suggest sarilumab may affect labor and obstetric delivery. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling may interfere with cervical ripening and dilatation and myometrial contractile activity, leading to potential delays in parturition. For mice deficient in IL-6, parturition was delayed relative to wild-type mice without this deficiency. Administration of recombinant IL-6 to the deficient mice restored the normal timing of delivery. There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors outcomes in pregnant patients exposed to sarilumab; information about the registry can be obtained at mothertobaby.org/ongoing-study/kevzara or by calling 1-877-311-8972.[61976]

There is no information available on the presence of sarilumab in human milk or its effects on the breast-fed infant or milk production. Maternal immunoglobulin G (IgG) is present in human milk. The effects of local exposure on the gastrointestinal tract and potential limited systemic exposure to the infant are unknown. Consider the developmental and health benefits of breast-feeding along with the mother's clinical need for sarilumab and the potential adverse effects on the breast-fed infant from sarilumab or the underlying maternal condition.

During clinical trials, the rate of serious infections among geriatric patients was higher compared to that of patients less than 65 years of age. Because there is a higher incidence of infections in the elderly in general, cautious use of sarilumab use is advised.

The safety and efficacy of sarilumab have not been established in pediatric patients (adolescents, children or infants).

ADVERSE REACTIONS

anaphylactoid reactions / Rapid / 0-0.3
rash / Early / 0.2-0.3
urticaria / Rapid / 0.2-0.3
GI perforation / Delayed / Incidence not known
new primary malignancy / Delayed / Incidence not known

elevated hepatic enzymes / Delayed / 27.0-43.0
antibody formation / Delayed / 4.0-9.2
neutropenia / Delayed / 4.0-6.0
erythema / Early / 4.0-5.0
thrombocytopenia / Delayed / 0.7-1.0
candidiasis / Delayed / Incidence not known
hypercholesterolemia / Delayed / Incidence not known
hyperlipidemia / Delayed / Incidence not known
hypertriglyceridemia / Delayed / Incidence not known

injection site reaction / Rapid / 6.0-7.0
infection / Delayed / 3.0-4.0
pruritus / Rapid / 2.0-2.0
pharyngitis / Delayed / Incidence not known

DRUG INTERACTIONS

Abatacept: (Major) Avoid the concomitant use of sarilumab with biological DMARDs, including selective costimulation modulators such as abatacept; coadministration has not been studied and may result in additive immunosuppression and increased risk of infection.
Adalimumab: (Major) Avoid the concomitant use of sarilumab with biological DMARDs, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) modifiers; coadministration has not been studied and may result in additive immunosuppression and increased risk of infection.
Alfentanil: (Moderate) Monitor for evidence of reduced effect if alfentanil coadministration with sarilumab is necessary; alfentanil dosage adjustment may be needed. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates compared to metabolism prior to treatment. Therefore, CYP450 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index, such as alfentanil, may have fluctuations in drug levels and therapeutic effect when sarilumab therapy is started or discontinued. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Alfentanil is a CYP3A4 substrate and a narrow therapeutic index drug.
Amlodipine; Atorvastatin: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as atorvastatin, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Monitor lipid panels and adjust therapy as indicated. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. A 45% decrease in exposure to another "statin" was noted in a drug interaction study. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Atorvastatin is a CYP3A4 substrate.
Anakinra: (Major) Avoid using sarilumab with other biological DMARDs including interleukin-1 receptor antagonists such as anakinra; coadministration has not been studied and may result in additive immunosuppression and increased risk of infection.
Apixaban: (Moderate) Monitor for a decrease in efficacy of apixaban if used with sarilumab. Until more data are available, consider using an anticoagulant without dependence on CYP450 enzymes for metabolism (e.g., heparins, edoxaban). The formation of CYP450 enzymes may be suppressed by increased concentrations of cytokines such as IL-6 during chronic inflammation. It is expected that the activity of CYP450 enzymes could increase to normal concentrations during treatment with an IL-6 antagonist such as sarilumab; these effects on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes [including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4]. Apixaban is an in vitro substrate for CYP3A4.
Atorvastatin: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as atorvastatin, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Monitor lipid panels and adjust therapy as indicated. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. A 45% decrease in exposure to another "statin" was noted in a drug interaction study. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Atorvastatin is a CYP3A4 substrate.
Atorvastatin; Ezetimibe: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as atorvastatin, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Monitor lipid panels and adjust therapy as indicated. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. A 45% decrease in exposure to another "statin" was noted in a drug interaction study. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Atorvastatin is a CYP3A4 substrate.
Bacillus Calmette-Guerin Vaccine, BCG: (Major) Avoid concurrent use of live vaccines during treatment with sarilumab due to potentially increased risk of infections; clinical safety of live vaccines during sarilumab treatment has not been established. No data are available on the secondary transmission of infection from persons receiving live vaccines to patients receiving sarilumab. The interval between live vaccinations and initiation of sarilumab therapy should be in accordance with current vaccination guidelines regarding immunosuppressive agents.
Baricitinib: (Major) Avoid the concomitant use of sarilumab with other biological DMARDs such as baricitinib; coadministration has not been studied and may result in additive immunosuppression and increased risk of infection.
Belladonna Alkaloids; Ergotamine; Phenobarbital: (Moderate) Monitor for decreased efficacy of ergotamine if coadministration with sarilumab is necessary. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates compared to metabolism prior to treatment. Therefore, CYP450 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index, such as ergotamine, may have fluctuations in drug levels and therapeutic effect when sarilumab therapy is started or discontinued. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Ergotamine is a CYP3A4 substrate and narrow therapeutic index drug.
Canakinumab: (Major) Avoid using sarilumab with other biological DMARDs including interleukin-1 receptor antagonists such as canakinumab; coadministration has not been studied and may result in additive immunosuppression and increased risk of infection.
Carbamazepine: (Moderate) Monitor carbamazepine concentrations and watch for decreased efficacy of carbamazepine if coadministration with sarilumab is necessary; adjust carbamazepine dosage as necessary. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates compared to metabolism prior to treatment. Therefore, CYP450 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index, such as carbamazepine, may have fluctuations in drug levels and therapeutic effect when sarilumab therapy is started or discontinued. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Carbamazepine is a substrate of both CYP1A2 and CYP3A4 and a narrow therapeutic index drug.
Certolizumab pegol: (Major) Avoid the concomitant use of sarilumab with biological DMARDs, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) modifiers; coadministration has not been studied and may result in additive immunosuppression and increased risk of infection.
Cholera Vaccine: (Moderate) Patients receiving immunosuppressant medications may have a diminished response to the live cholera vaccine. When feasible, administer indicated vaccines prior to initiating immunosuppressant medications. Counsel patients receiving immunosuppressant medications about the possibility of a diminished vaccine response and to continue to follow precautions to avoid exposure to cholera bacteria after receiving the vaccine.
Cisapride: (Moderate) Monitor for decreased efficacy of cisapride if coadministration with sarilumab is necessary. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates compared to metabolism prior to treatment. Therefore, CYP450 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index, such as cisapride, may have fluctuations in drug levels and therapeutic effect when sarilumab therapy is started or discontinued. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Cisapride is a CYP3A4 substrate and a narrow therapeutic index drug.
Cyclosporine: (Moderate) Monitor cyclosporine levels and adjust the dose of cyclosporine as appropriate if coadministration with sarilumab is necessary. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates compared to metabolism prior to treatment. Therefore, CYP450 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index, such as cyclosporine, may have fluctuations in drug levels and therapeutic effect when sarilumab therapy is started or discontinued. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Cyclosporine is a CYP3A4 substrate and a narrow therapeutic index drug.
Desogestrel; Ethinyl Estradiol: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as combined hormonal oral contraceptives, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.
Dextromethorphan; Quinidine: (Moderate) Monitor quinidine levels and adjust the dose of quinidine as appropriate if coadministration with sarilumab is necessary. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates compared to metabolism prior to treatment. Therefore, CYP450 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index, such as quinidine, may have fluctuations in drug levels and therapeutic effect when sarilumab therapy is started or discontinued. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Quinidine is a CYP3A4 substrate and narrow therapeutic index drug.
Dienogest; Estradiol valerate: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as combined hormonal oral contraceptives, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.
Dihydroergotamine: (Moderate) Monitor for decreased efficacy of dihydroergotamine if coadministration with sarilumab is necessary. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates compared to metabolism prior to treatment. Therefore, CYP450 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index, such as dihydroergotamine, may have fluctuations in drug levels and therapeutic effect when sarilumab therapy is started or discontinued. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Dihydroergotamine is a CYP3A4 substrate and narrow therapeutic index drug.
Drospirenone: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as combined hormonal oral contraceptives, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.
Drospirenone; Estetrol: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as combined hormonal oral contraceptives, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.
Drospirenone; Estradiol: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as combined hormonal oral contraceptives, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.
Drospirenone; Ethinyl Estradiol: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as combined hormonal oral contraceptives, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.
Drospirenone; Ethinyl Estradiol; Levomefolate: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as combined hormonal oral contraceptives, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.
Elagolix; Estradiol; Norethindrone acetate: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as combined hormonal oral contraceptives, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.
Ergotamine: (Moderate) Monitor for decreased efficacy of ergotamine if coadministration with sarilumab is necessary. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates compared to metabolism prior to treatment. Therefore, CYP450 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index, such as ergotamine, may have fluctuations in drug levels and therapeutic effect when sarilumab therapy is started or discontinued. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Ergotamine is a CYP3A4 substrate and narrow therapeutic index drug.
Ergotamine; Caffeine: (Moderate) Monitor for decreased efficacy of ergotamine if coadministration with sarilumab is necessary. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates compared to metabolism prior to treatment. Therefore, CYP450 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index, such as ergotamine, may have fluctuations in drug levels and therapeutic effect when sarilumab therapy is started or discontinued. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Ergotamine is a CYP3A4 substrate and narrow therapeutic index drug.
Estradiol; Levonorgestrel: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as combined hormonal oral contraceptives, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.
Estradiol; Norethindrone: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as combined hormonal oral contraceptives, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.
Estradiol; Norgestimate: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as combined hormonal oral contraceptives, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.
Etanercept: (Major) Avoid the concomitant use of sarilumab with biological DMARDs, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) modifiers; coadministration has not been studied and may result in additive immunosuppression and increased risk of infection.
Ethinyl Estradiol: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as combined hormonal oral contraceptives, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.
Ethinyl Estradiol; Levonorgestrel; Folic Acid; Levomefolate: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as combined hormonal oral contraceptives, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.
Ethinyl Estradiol; Norelgestromin: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as combined hormonal oral contraceptives, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.
Ethinyl Estradiol; Norethindrone Acetate: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as combined hormonal oral contraceptives, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.
Ethinyl Estradiol; Norgestrel: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as combined hormonal oral contraceptives, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.
Ethosuximide: (Moderate) Monitor for reduced efficacy of ethosuximide, monitor drug concentrations, and adjust the dose of ethosuximide as appropriate if coadministration with sarilumab is necessary. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates compared to metabolism prior to treatment. Therefore, CYP450 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index, such as ethosuximide, may have fluctuations in drug levels and therapeutic effect when sarilumab therapy is started or discontinued. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Ethosuximide is a CYP3A4 substrate and narrow therapeutic index drug.
Ethynodiol Diacetate; Ethinyl Estradiol: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as combined hormonal oral contraceptives, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.
Etonogestrel; Ethinyl Estradiol: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as combined hormonal oral contraceptives, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.
Everolimus: (Moderate) Monitor for clinical response in patients taking everolimus concurrently with sarilumab. For indications where therapeutic drug monitoring is appropriate, monitor everolimus trough concentrations and adjust the dose of everolimus accordingly. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates compared to metabolism prior to treatment. Therefore, CYP450 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index, such as everolimus, may have fluctuations in drug levels and therapeutic effect when sarilumab therapy is started or discontinued. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Everolimus is a CYP3A4 substrate and narrow therapeutic index drug.
Ezetimibe; Simvastatin: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as simvastatin, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Monitor lipid panels and adjust therapy as indicated. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. A 45% decrease in simvastatin exposure was noted 1 week after a single sarilumab dose. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Simvastatin is a CYP3A4 substrate.
Fentanyl: (Moderate) Monitor for evidence of reduced pain control or opioid withdrawal if fentanyl coadministration with sarilumab is necessary; fentanyl dosage adjustment may be needed. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates compared to metabolism prior to treatment. Therefore, CYP450 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index, such as fentanyl, may have fluctuations in drug levels and therapeutic effect when sarilumab therapy is started or discontinued. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Fentanyl is a CYP3A4 substrate and narrow therapeutic index drug.
Fosphenytoin: (Moderate) Monitor fosphenytoin concentrations and watch for decreased efficacy of fosphenytoin if coadministration with sarilumab is necessary; adjust fosphenytoin dosage as necessary. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates compared to metabolism prior to treatment. Therefore, CYP450 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index, such as fosphenytoin, may have fluctuations in drug levels and therapeutic effect when sarilumab therapy is started or discontinued. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Fosphenytoin is a substrate of both CYP2C9 and CYP2C19 and narrow therapeutic index drug.
Golimumab: (Major) Avoid the concomitant use of sarilumab with biological DMARDs, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) modifiers; coadministration has not been studied and may result in additive immunosuppression and increased risk of infection.
Infliximab: (Major) Avoid the concomitant use of sarilumab with biological DMARDs, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) modifiers; coadministration has not been studied and may result in additive immunosuppression and increased risk of infection.
Intranasal Influenza Vaccine: (Major) Avoid concurrent use of live vaccines during treatment with sarilumab due to potentially increased risk of infections; clinical safety of live vaccines during sarilumab treatment has not been established. No data are available on the secondary transmission of infection from persons receiving live vaccines to patients receiving sarilumab. The interval between live vaccinations and initiation of sarilumab therapy should be in accordance with current vaccination guidelines regarding immunosuppressive agents.
Leuprolide; Norethindrone: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as combined hormonal oral contraceptives, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.
Levonorgestrel: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as combined hormonal oral contraceptives, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.
Levonorgestrel; Ethinyl Estradiol: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as combined hormonal oral contraceptives, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.
Levonorgestrel; Ethinyl Estradiol; Ferrous Bisglycinate: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as combined hormonal oral contraceptives, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.
Live Vaccines: (Major) Avoid concurrent use of live vaccines during treatment with sarilumab due to potentially increased risk of infections; clinical safety of live vaccines during sarilumab treatment has not been established. No data are available on the secondary transmission of infection from persons receiving live vaccines to patients receiving sarilumab. The interval between live vaccinations and initiation of sarilumab therapy should be in accordance with current vaccination guidelines regarding immunosuppressive agents.
Lovastatin: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as lovastatin, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Monitor lipid panels and adjust therapy as indicated. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. A 45% decrease in exposure to another "statin" was noted in a drug interaction study. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Lovastatin is a CYP3A4 substrate.
Lovastatin; Niacin: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as lovastatin, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Monitor lipid panels and adjust therapy as indicated. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. A 45% decrease in exposure to another "statin" was noted in a drug interaction study. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Lovastatin is a CYP3A4 substrate.
Measles Virus; Mumps Virus; Rubella Virus; Varicella Virus Vaccine, Live: (Major) Avoid concurrent use of live vaccines during treatment with sarilumab due to potentially increased risk of infections; clinical safety of live vaccines during sarilumab treatment has not been established. No data are available on the secondary transmission of infection from persons receiving live vaccines to patients receiving sarilumab. The interval between live vaccinations and initiation of sarilumab therapy should be in accordance with current vaccination guidelines regarding immunosuppressive agents.
Measles/Mumps/Rubella Vaccines, MMR: (Major) Avoid concurrent use of live vaccines during treatment with sarilumab due to potentially increased risk of infections; clinical safety of live vaccines during sarilumab treatment has not been established. No data are available on the secondary transmission of infection from persons receiving live vaccines to patients receiving sarilumab. The interval between live vaccinations and initiation of sarilumab therapy should be in accordance with current vaccination guidelines regarding immunosuppressive agents.
Mestranol; Norethindrone: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as combined hormonal oral contraceptives, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.
Nanoparticle Albumin-Bound Sirolimus: (Moderate) Monitor sirolimus levels and adjust the dose of sirolimus as appropriate if coadministration with sarilumab is necessary. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates compared to metabolism prior to treatment. Therefore, CYP450 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index, such as sirolimus, may have fluctuations in drug levels and therapeutic effect when sarilumab therapy is started or discontinued. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Sirolimus is a CYP3A4 substrate and narrow therapeutic index drug.
Niacin; Simvastatin: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as simvastatin, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Monitor lipid panels and adjust therapy as indicated. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. A 45% decrease in simvastatin exposure was noted 1 week after a single sarilumab dose. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Simvastatin is a CYP3A4 substrate.
Norethindrone Acetate; Ethinyl Estradiol; Ferrous fumarate: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as combined hormonal oral contraceptives, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.
Norethindrone: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as combined hormonal oral contraceptives, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.
Norethindrone; Ethinyl Estradiol: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as combined hormonal oral contraceptives, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.
Norethindrone; Ethinyl Estradiol; Ferrous fumarate: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as combined hormonal oral contraceptives, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.
Norgestimate; Ethinyl Estradiol: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as combined hormonal oral contraceptives, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.
Norgestrel: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as combined hormonal oral contraceptives, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.
Ofatumumab: (Major) Avoid using sarilumab with other biological agents, including anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies such as ofatumumab; coadministration has not been studied and may result in additive immunosuppression and an increased risk of infection.
Oral Contraceptives: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as combined hormonal oral contraceptives, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.
Phenytoin: (Moderate) Monitor phenytoin concentrations and watch for decreased efficacy of phenytoin if coadministration with sarilumab is necessary; adjust phenytoin dosage as necessary. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates compared to metabolism prior to treatment. Therefore, CYP450 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index, such as phenytoin, may have fluctuations in drug levels and therapeutic effect when sarilumab therapy is started or discontinued. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Phenytoin is a substrate of both CYP2C9 and CYP2C19 and narrow therapeutic index drug.
Pimozide: (Moderate) Monitor for an altered patient response to pimozide if coadministration with sarilumab is necessary. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates compared to metabolism prior to treatment. Therefore, CYP450 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index, such as pimozide, may have fluctuations in drug levels and therapeutic effect when sarilumab therapy is started or discontinued. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Pimozide a substrate of both CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 and narrow therapeutic index drug.
Quinidine: (Moderate) Monitor quinidine levels and adjust the dose of quinidine as appropriate if coadministration with sarilumab is necessary. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates compared to metabolism prior to treatment. Therefore, CYP450 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index, such as quinidine, may have fluctuations in drug levels and therapeutic effect when sarilumab therapy is started or discontinued. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Quinidine is a CYP3A4 substrate and narrow therapeutic index drug.
Relugolix; Estradiol; Norethindrone acetate: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as combined hormonal oral contraceptives, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.
Rituximab: (Major) Avoid using sarilumab with other biological agents, including anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies such as rituximab; coadministration has not been studied and may result in additive immunosuppression and an increased risk of infection.
Rituximab; Hyaluronidase: (Major) Avoid using sarilumab with other biological agents, including anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies such as rituximab; coadministration has not been studied and may result in additive immunosuppression and an increased risk of infection.
Rivaroxaban: (Moderate) Monitor for a decrease in efficacy of rivaroxaban if used with sarilumab. Until more data are available, consider using an anticoagulant without dependence on CYP450 enzymes for metabolism (e.g., heparins, edoxaban). The formation of CYP450 enzymes may be suppressed by increased concentrations of cytokines such as IL-6 during chronic inflammation. It is expected that the activity of CYP450 enzymes could increase to normal concentrations during treatment with an IL-6 antagonist such as sarilumab; these effects on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes [including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4]. Rivaroxaban is a substrate for CYP3A4/5.
Rotavirus Vaccine: (Major) Avoid concurrent use of live vaccines during treatment with sarilumab due to potentially increased risk of infections; clinical safety of live vaccines during sarilumab treatment has not been established. No data are available on the secondary transmission of infection from persons receiving live vaccines to patients receiving sarilumab. The interval between live vaccinations and initiation of sarilumab therapy should be in accordance with current vaccination guidelines regarding immunosuppressive agents.
Rubella Virus Vaccine Live: (Major) Avoid concurrent use of live vaccines during treatment with sarilumab due to potentially increased risk of infections; clinical safety of live vaccines during sarilumab treatment has not been established. No data are available on the secondary transmission of infection from persons receiving live vaccines to patients receiving sarilumab. The interval between live vaccinations and initiation of sarilumab therapy should be in accordance with current vaccination guidelines regarding immunosuppressive agents.
SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) vaccines: (Moderate) Patients receiving immunosuppressant medications may have a diminished response to the SARS-CoV-2 virus vaccine. When feasible, administer indicated vaccines prior to initiating immunosuppressant medications. Counsel patients receiving immunosuppressant medications about the possibility of a diminished vaccine response and to continue to follow precautions to avoid exposure to SARS-CoV-2 virus after receiving the vaccine.
Secukinumab: (Major) Avoid using sarilumab with other biological DMARDs, such as secukinumab; coadministration has not been studied and may result in additive immunosuppression and increased risk of infection.
Segesterone Acetate; Ethinyl Estradiol: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as combined hormonal oral contraceptives, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.
Simvastatin: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as simvastatin, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Monitor lipid panels and adjust therapy as indicated. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. A 45% decrease in simvastatin exposure was noted 1 week after a single sarilumab dose. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Simvastatin is a CYP3A4 substrate.
Simvastatin; Sitagliptin: (Moderate) Utilize caution with concomitant use of sarilumab and CYP3A4 substrate drugs, such as simvastatin, where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. Monitor lipid panels and adjust therapy as indicated. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. A 45% decrease in simvastatin exposure was noted 1 week after a single sarilumab dose. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Simvastatin is a CYP3A4 substrate.
Sirolimus: (Moderate) Monitor sirolimus levels and adjust the dose of sirolimus as appropriate if coadministration with sarilumab is necessary. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates compared to metabolism prior to treatment. Therefore, CYP450 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index, such as sirolimus, may have fluctuations in drug levels and therapeutic effect when sarilumab therapy is started or discontinued. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Sirolimus is a CYP3A4 substrate and narrow therapeutic index drug.
Smallpox and Monkeypox Vaccine, Live, Nonreplicating: (Major) Avoid concurrent use of live vaccines during treatment with sarilumab due to potentially increased risk of infections; clinical safety of live vaccines during sarilumab treatment has not been established. No data are available on the secondary transmission of infection from persons receiving live vaccines to patients receiving sarilumab. The interval between live vaccinations and initiation of sarilumab therapy should be in accordance with current vaccination guidelines regarding immunosuppressive agents.
Smallpox Vaccine, Vaccinia Vaccine: (Major) Avoid concurrent use of live vaccines during treatment with sarilumab due to potentially increased risk of infections; clinical safety of live vaccines during sarilumab treatment has not been established. No data are available on the secondary transmission of infection from persons receiving live vaccines to patients receiving sarilumab. The interval between live vaccinations and initiation of sarilumab therapy should be in accordance with current vaccination guidelines regarding immunosuppressive agents.
Tacrolimus: (Moderate) Monitor tacrolimus levels and adjust the dose of tacrolimus as appropriate if coadministration with sarilumab is necessary. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates compared to metabolism prior to treatment. Therefore, CYP450 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index, such as tacrolimus, may have fluctuations in drug levels and therapeutic effect when sarilumab therapy is started or discontinued. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Tacrolimus is a CYP3A4 substrate and narrow therapeutic index drug.
Theophylline, Aminophylline: (Moderate) Monitor drug concentrations and watch for decreased efficacy of aminophylline or theophylline if coadministration with sarilumab is necessary; a dosage increase of these methylxanthines may be necessary. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates compared to metabolism prior to treatment. Therefore, CYP450 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index may have fluctuations in drug levels and therapeutic effect when sarilumab therapy is started or discontinued. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro,sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Aminophylline and Theophylline are CYP1A2 substrates and narrow therapeutic index drugs.
Thioridazine: (Moderate) Monitor for an altered patient response to thioridazine if coadministration with sarilumab is necessary. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates compared to metabolism prior to treatment. Therefore, CYP450 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index, such as thioridazine, may have fluctuations in drug levels and therapeutic effect when sarilumab therapy is started or discontinued. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Thioridazine is a CYP2D6 substrate and narrow therapeutic index drug.
Tizanidine: (Moderate) Monitor for reduced efficacy of tizanidine if coadministered with sarilumab. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilmuab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates compared to metabolism prior to treatment. Therefore, CYP450 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index, such as tizanidine, may have fluctuations in drug levels and therapeutic effect when sarilumab therapy is started or discontinued. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab. In vitro, sarilumab has the potential to affect expression of multiple CYP enzymes, including CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4. Tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate and narrow therapeutic index drug.
Tocilizumab: (Major) Avoid using sarilumab with other biological DMARDs, such as tocilizumab; coadministration has not been studied and may result in additive immunosuppression and increased risk of infection.
Tofacitinib: (Major) Avoid the concomitant use of sarilumab with other biological DMARDs such as tofacitinib; coadministration has not been studied and may result in additive immunosuppression and increased risk of infection.
Tumor Necrosis Factor modifiers: (Major) Avoid the concomitant use of sarilumab with biological DMARDs, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) modifiers; coadministration has not been studied and may result in additive immunosuppression and increased risk of infection.
Typhoid Vaccine: (Major) Avoid concurrent use of live vaccines during treatment with sarilumab due to potentially increased risk of infections; clinical safety of live vaccines during sarilumab treatment has not been established. No data are available on the secondary transmission of infection from persons receiving live vaccines to patients receiving sarilumab. The interval between live vaccinations and initiation of sarilumab therapy should be in accordance with current vaccination guidelines regarding immunosuppressive agents.
Upadacitinib: (Major) Avoid the concomitant use of sarilumab with other biological DMARDs, such as upadacitinib; coadministration has not been studied and may result in additive immunosuppression and an increased risk of infection.
Ustekinumab: (Major) Avoid the concomitant use of sarilumab with other biological DMARDs such as ustekinumab; coadministration has not been studied and may result in additive immunosuppression and increased risk of infection.
Varicella-Zoster Virus Vaccine, Live: (Major) Avoid concurrent use of live vaccines during treatment with sarilumab due to potentially increased risk of infections; clinical safety of live vaccines during sarilumab treatment has not been established. No data are available on the secondary transmission of infection from persons receiving live vaccines to patients receiving sarilumab. The interval between live vaccinations and initiation of sarilumab therapy should be in accordance with current vaccination guidelines regarding immunosuppressive agents.
Warfarin: (Moderate) Monitor the INR if sarilumab is coadministered with warfarin due to the potential for decreased warfarin efficacy; adjust the dose of warfarin as necessary. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling by sarilumab may restore CYP450 activities to higher levels leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates as compared to metabolism prior to treatment. Therefore, CYP450 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index, such as warfarin, may have fluctuations in drug levels and therapeutic effect when sarilumab therapy is started or discontinued. This effect on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping sarilumab.
Yellow Fever Vaccine, Live: (Major) Avoid concurrent use of live vaccines during treatment with sarilumab due to potentially increased risk of infections; clinical safety of live vaccines during sarilumab treatment has not been established. No data are available on the secondary transmission of infection from persons receiving live vaccines to patients receiving sarilumab. The interval between live vaccinations and initiation of sarilumab therapy should be in accordance with current vaccination guidelines regarding immunosuppressive agents.

PREGNANCY AND LACTATION

Limited available data are not sufficient to determine whether the use of sarilumab during human pregnancy is associated with risk for major birth defects or miscarriage. Monoclonal antibodies, like sarilumab, are increasingly transported across the placenta as pregnancy progresses, with the largest amount transferred during the third trimester. This may affect immune response in the in utero exposed infant. Concentrations of immunoglobulin G (IgG), in response to antigen challenge, may be reduced in the fetus/infant of treated mothers. Consider risks and benefits prior to administering live or live-attenuated vaccines to neonates or infants who were exposed to sarilumab in utero. In an animal reproduction study, consisting of a combined embryo-fetal and pre- and postnatal development study with monkeys that received intravenous administration of sarilumab, there was no evidence of embryotoxicity or fetal malformations with exposures up to approximately 84 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD). Animal data suggest sarilumab may affect labor and obstetric delivery. Inhibition of IL-6 signaling may interfere with cervical ripening and dilatation and myometrial contractile activity, leading to potential delays in parturition. For mice deficient in IL-6, parturition was delayed relative to wild-type mice without this deficiency. Administration of recombinant IL-6 to the deficient mice restored the normal timing of delivery. There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors outcomes in pregnant patients exposed to sarilumab; information about the registry can be obtained at mothertobaby.org/ongoing-study/kevzara or by calling 1-877-311-8972.[61976]

MECHANISM OF ACTION

Sarilumab binds to both soluble and membrane-bound interleukin-6 (IL-6) receptors (sIL-6R and mIL-6R), and has been shown to inhibit IL-6-mediated signaling through these receptors. IL-6 is a pleiotropic pro-inflammatory cytokine produced by a variety of cell types including T-cells and B-cells, lymphocytes, monocytes, and fibroblasts. IL-6 has been shown to be involved in diverse physiological processes such as T-cell activation, induction of immunoglobulin secretion, initiation of hepatic acute phase protein synthesis, and stimulation of hematopoietic precursor cell proliferation and differentiation. IL-6 is also produced by synovial and endothelial cells leading to local production of IL-6 in joints affected by inflammatory processes such as rheumatoid arthritis.

PHARMACOKINETICS

Sarilumab is administered subcutaneously. The volume of distribution at steady state is 7.3 L. Sarilumab is eliminated by parallel linear and non-linear pathways. At higher concentrations, the elimination is predominately through the linear, non-saturable proteolytic pathway. At lower concentrations, non-linear saturable target-mediated elimination predominates. The half-life is concentration-dependent. At steady-state following administration of 150 mg or 200 mg subcutaneously every 2 weeks, the half-life is up to 8 or 10 days, respectively. After the last steady-state dose of 150 mg and 200 mg, the median times to non-detectable concentration are 28 and 43 days, respectively. Sarilumab is expected to be degraded into small peptides and amino acids via catabolic pathways, similar to endogenous IgG. Monoclonal antibodies are not eliminated via renal or hepatic pathways.[61976]
 
Decreases in C-reactive protein to within normal ranges were seen as early as week 2 after single-dose administration of sarilumab 150 mg or 200 mg during trials in adult patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Treatment with sarilumab resulted in decreases in serum amyloid A and fibrinogen and increases in hemoglobin and serum albumin.[61976]
 
Affected cytochrome P450 (CYP450) isoenzymes and drug transporters: various CYP450 isoenzymes
The formation of CYP450 enzymes may be suppressed by increased concentrations of cytokines, such as IL-6, during chronic inflammation. Thus, it is expected that the formation of CYP450 enzymes could be normalized during sarilumab receipt leading to increased metabolism of drugs that are CYP450 substrates. Exercise caution when coadministering sarilumab with CYP3A4 substrate drugs where a decrease in effectiveness is undesirable. The effect of sarilumab on CYP450 enzyme activity may persist for several weeks after stopping the medication.[61976]