eculizumab, a monoclonal antibody. ▪ INDICATIONS: This drug is used to treat paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, a rare, genetic form of hemolytic anemia. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Known hypersensitivity to this drug prohibits its use. Rapid discontinuation may result in serious hemolysis. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Adverse effects of this drug include rash, dyspnea, calf or leg pain, chest pain, confusion, coughing up blood, sensitivity to light, fever, chills, persistent sore throat, mental changes, headache, nausea, vomiting, fever, stiff neck or back, mouth sores, fever blisters, and severe muscle aches. A life-threatening side effect is meningococcal infection. Common side effects are headache, nasopharyngitis, back pain, nausea, fatigue, and cough.
