Vedolizumab Injection (VEDOLIZUMAB - INJECTION)

Vedolizumab Injection (VEDOLIZUMAB - INJECTION)

For inflammatory bowel disease.

Brand Name(s): Entyvio

Generic Name: Vedolizumab

Instructions

This medicine is given as an IV injection into a vein.

This medicine should be given over 30 minutes.

Always inspect the medicine before using.

Check the medicine before each use. If the liquid medicine has any particles in it, appears discolored, or if the vial appears damaged, do not use it.

Keep medicine in refrigerator. Do not freeze. Protect from light.

This medicine should be given by a trained health care provider.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Some patients on this medicine have developed severe, life-threatening infections. Please speak with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medicine.

Tell your doctor or nurse right away if any of these happen while the medicine is being given: feeling of heat or flushing, fever, chills, dizziness, fast or irregular heartbeat, or shortness of breath. The medicine may need to be stopped or given at a slower rate.

This medicine may reduce your body's ability to fight infections. Avoid contact with people with colds, flu or other infections. Contact your doctor if you develop fever, cough, sore throat, or chills.

Speak with your health care provider before receiving any vaccinations.

This medicine passes into breast milk. Ask your doctor before breastfeeding.

Some patients have serious side effects from this medicine. Ask your pharmacist to show you the information from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and discuss it with you.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
  • headaches
  • pain, redness, swelling near injection
  • pain in the joints

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • severe abdominal or pelvic pain
  • loss of balance
  • chest pain
  • difficulty concentrating
  • confusion
  • cough that does not go away
  • dizziness
  • feeling of heat or flushing
  • fever or chills
  • severe or persistent headache
  • fast or irregular heart beats
  • signs of liver damage (such as yellowing of eye or skin, dark urine, or unusual tiredness)
  • memory problems or loss
  • mood changes
  • tight or rigid muscles
  • nausea
  • neck pain or stiffness
  • seizures
  • shortness of breath
  • sore throat
  • difficulty speaking
  • unsteadiness while walking
  • upper respiratory infection
  • blurring or changes of vision

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.