Spiced, Colloquial Version:
Aubagio Overview: Details on Usage for Multiple Sclerosis, Adverse Effects, Expenses, and Additional Information
Yo, what's the lowdown on Aubagio, ya ask?
Aubagio, my dude, is a prescription pill that's FDA-approved to handle a fewMultiple Sclerosis (MS) related situations for grown-ups:
- Relapsing-remitting MS
- Active secondary progressive MS
- Clinically isolated syndrome
Aubagio contains the drug teriflunomide, which is a pyrimidine synthesis inhibitor dig. These babies help immune cells from duplicating too quickly. Wacko, huh? This lad smacks 'em down, decreasing inflammation.
Aubagio pops up as a pill. It's available in two doses: 7 milligrams (mg) and 14 mg.
Wanna know if Aubagio works? Check out the "Aubagio uses" section.
Aubagio Side Effects
Aubagio can cause mild or gnarly side effects. Here's a rundown of a few key side effects:
Common Side Effects
Ain't no lie, common Aubagio side effects include:
- Headache
- Hair loss or thinning
- Low phosphate levels
- Decreased white blood cells
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Elevated liver enzymes (which can be a sign of liver damage)
- High blood pressure
- Numbness or tingling in your mitts or feet
- Joint pain
Most of these side effects might disappear within a couple of days or week. If they persist or become more severe, holler at your doctor or pharmacist.
Serious Side Effects
If shit goes south and you gotta dial 911, keep an eye out for these serious side effects and their symptoms:
- Low white blood cells:Symptoms may include fever, tiredness, body aches, chills, nausea, and vomiting
- High blood pressure:Symptoms may include headache, fatigue or confusion, vision changes, irregular heartbeat
- Respiratory problems, including interstitial lung disease:Symptoms may include shortness of breath, coughing with or without a fever
- Liver damage, including liver failure
- Severe skin reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome and drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS).
- Allergic reactions
Side Effect Details
So, lemme break it down. Here's the down-low on some side effects and if this drug could or could not cause them:
- Allergic reaction
Like any medication, an allergic reaction is possible. Symptoms of a mild allergic reaction can be a skin rash or the itch. A more severe allergic reaction is rare but possible. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction can include:
- Angioedema (swelling under your skin, typically in your eyelids, lips, hands, or feet)
- Swelling of your tongue, mouth, or throat
- Trouble breathing
- Discolored skin
- Peeling skin
If you experience a severe allergic reaction to Aubagio, reach out to your doctor STAT. If it feels life-threatening or if you think you're having a medical emergency, dial 911.
- Skin problems or rash
Aubagio can cause serious skin reactions. These include Stevens-Johnson syndrome and drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), which are medical emergencies. Stevens-Johnson syndrome can lead to painful sores on your peepers, mouth, throat, or privates. DRESS may result in a severe skin rash and problems with your organs.
One individual who took Aubagio is reported to have developed toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), which was fatal. TEN is Stevens-Johnson syndrome that affects more than 30% of your body. It starts as a painful rash with flu-like symptoms and then blisters develop.
If your skin peels or becomes discolored, swollen, or blistered, let your doctor know ASAP. If you have Stevens-Johnson syndrome, DRESS, or TEN, you might need to be admitted to the hospital.
- Liver damage
Aubagio carries a serious warning from the FDA for liver damage. In clinical trials, about 6% of folks who took Aubagio had increased levels of liver enzymes. About 4% of those who had a placebo (no treatment) had increased liver enzyme levels.
Aubagio can increase levels of liver enzymes, which can be a sign of severe liver problems. Let your doctor know if you detect any of these symptoms:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Pain in your belly
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue
- Dark urine
- Yellowing of your skin or eyes
Before beginning Aubagio treatment, your doctor will give you blood tests to check your liver function. They'll also provide monthly tests to monitor your liver.
- Hair loss
Aubagio's most common side effect is hair thinning or loss. In clinical trials, about 13% of folks using Aubagio had hair loss. Most peeps had symptoms of hair loss within three months of taking the drug, but it lasted less than six months on average and usually eased as individuals continued taking Aubagio.
If you're on Aubagio and miffed about hair loss, shoot the breeze with your doctor.
- Diarrhea
Diarrhea is a common curious cat that shows up with Aubagio use. In clinical trials, about 14% of folks who took Aubagio had diarrhea compared to 8% of those who received a placebo. Most cases of diarrhea were mild to moderate and went away by themselves.
To manage mild diarrhea, drink plenty of fluid or electrolyte solutions to help replace lost fluids. If your diarrhea lasts several days, reach out to your doc. They can offer suggestions on how to soothe your symptoms.
- Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML) (Not an actual side effect)
PML isn't an Aubagio side effect, but it's similar to some neurological symptoms of MS and can occur after switching from natalizumab (Tysabri), another drug used to treat MS.
If you chill on Aubagio after using natalizumab, your doctor will check you for PML. Don't freak, as it's very unlikely Aubagio is to blame.
- Fatigue (Not an actual side effect)
Fatigue really ain't a common Aubagio side effect, but fatigue is a whopping symptom of MS. Fatigue can also be a sign of liver damage.
If you're peeved about fatigue while taking Aubagio, chat with your doctor. They can look into potential reasons and suggest ways to boost your energy.
- Weight loss or weight gain (Not an actual side effect)
Weight loss and weight gain weren't side effects of Aubagio in clinical trials. You shouldn't suffer weight loss or gain while taking Aubagio.
But one of the most common symptoms of MS is fatigue. If you don't get your butt moving much because of fatigue, you might gain weight. If you also experience depression, you might eat more or less than usual, leading to weight gain or weight loss.
If you're bugged by changes in your weight, discuss with your doc. They can provide helpful diet tips or suggest a dietitian.
- Cancer (Not an actual side effect)
Using immune system-targeting medications, like Aubagio, might increase your risk for cancer. However, clinical trials for Aubagio didn't report an increase in cancer cases.
If you're concerned about developing cancer while using Aubagio, chat with your doctor.
- Depression (Not an actual side effect)
Depression isn't an Aubagio side effect, but depression is a common MS symptom.
If you experience symptoms of depression, let your doctor know. Several antidepressant drugs are available that may help ease your symptoms.
Aubagio Dosage
Your Aubagio dosage depends on multiple factors, such as your condition and dosage form. Your doc will likely start you on a low dose and gradually increase it to find the best dosage for you.
The following information describes common Aubagio doses.
Be sure to obey your doc's prescription rather than using this information.
Drug Forms and Strengths
Aubagio comes as an oral pill in two doses: 7 milligrams (mg) and 14 mg.
Dosage for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis, active secondary progressive multiple sclerosis, and clinically isolated syndrome
For treating relapsing-remitting MS, active secondary progressive MS, and clinically isolated syndrome, your doc may prescribe a 7 mg dose once a day. If this starting dose doesn't do the trick, they may increase the dosage to 14 mg once a day.
What if I miss a dose?
If you forget a dosage, take it as soon as you remember. If you've nearly come to your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and follow your regular dosing schedule. Never take double doses or extra doses.
Long-Term Use
Aubagio is meant to be consumed as a long-term treatment for the conditions it treats. If Aubagio works for you and your doc deems it safe and beneficial, you'll likely take it for the long haul.
Aubagio Generic
Aubagio is a brand-name drug containing the active ingredient teriflunomide. Teriflunomide is also available as a generic medication.
A generic drug is an identical copy of the active ingredient in a brand-name medication. If you're intrigued by using the generic form of Aubagio, discuss it with your doctor. They can tell you if it's available in forms and strengths that suit your condition.
Aubagio Cost
The actual Aubagio cost varies depending on your insurance coverage, location, and pharmacy. If you need financial assistance, call the Aubagio Co-Pay Program at 855-676-6326 or visit their website.**
If you're uninsured, you may find resources for saving money on Aubagio at the Medicine Assistance Tool and NeedyMeds.
Aubagio Uses
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves prescription drugs, like Aubagio, to treat specific disorders. Aubagio is approved to treat the following conditions in adults:
- Relapsing-Remitting MS
- Active Secondary Progressive MS
- Clinically Isolated Syndrome
About MS and CIS
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a persistent condition that causes your immune system to assault the myelin on nerves in your eyes, brain, and spinal cord. This creates scar tissue, making it tough for your brain to transmit signals to other parts of your bod. There are various forms of MS, but Aubagio might not be prescribed for all.
Multiple Sclerosis and CIS are likely to be your conditions for prescription.
About the Effectiveness of Aubagio for MS
In clinical trials, Aubagio proved to be a secure and effective treatment for multiple sclerosis, active secondary progressive MS, and CIS.
For more information about the effectiveness of Aubagio, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
Aubagio and Alcohol
No interaction between Aubagio and alcohol is known, but consuming alcohol while taking Aubagio may increase your chance for certain side effects, such as:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Headache
Drinking excessive alcohol while using Aubagio may also increase your risk for liver damage.
If you drink alcohol, discuss with your doctor whether it's safe during your Aubagio treatment.
Aubagio Interactions
Aubagio can interact with various medications. It may also interact with supplements and foods. Different interactions can influence how a drug works or amplify side effects. Here is a list of medications that can interact with Aubagio.
Before starting Aubagio treatment, inform your doc and pharmacist about all prescription, over-the-counter, and other drugs you take. Also, spill the beans about any vitamins, herbs, and supplements you use.
If you have questions about potential drug interactions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Alternatives to Aubagio
Several other drugs can be used to treat multiple sclerosis, active secondary progressive MS, or CIS. Some may be more fitting for you than others. If you're hunting for an alternative to Aubagio, chat it up with your doctor.
Examples of other drugs that may work for your ailment include:
- Beta interferons (Rebif, Avonex)
- Ocrelizumab (Ocrevus)
- Dimethyl fumarate (Tecfidera)
- Glatiramer acetate (Copaxone)
- Fingolimod (Gilenya)
- Natalizumab (Tysabri)
Aubagio vs. Tecfidera
Tecfidera is another drug prescribed for similar disorders. Here's how Aubagio and Tecfidera stack up:
Ingredients
Aubagio contains the active ingredient teriflunomide. Tecfidera contains dimethyl fumarate, a distinct active ingredient.
Uses
Both Aubagio and Tecfidera are approved to treat relapsing-remitting MS, active secondary progressive MS, and CIS in adults.
Aubagio may not be prescribed for all types of MS.
Drug Forms and Administration
Aubagio comes as an oral tablet, while Tecfidera is an oral capsule.
Side Effects and Risks
Aubagio and Tecfidera have similar side effects. Here are examples of common and serious side effects for each drug:
More common side effects
- Common side effects of Aubagio
- Hair loss or thinning
- Increased levels of liver enzymes, which can be a sign of liver damage
- Headache
- Decreased phosphate level
- Numbness or tingling in your hands or feet
- Joint pain
- Common side effects of Tecfidera
- Flushing
- Skin rash
- Abdominal pain
- Cold symptoms (flu, cough, backache)
- Common side effects for both Aubagio and Tecfidera
- Diarrhea
Serious Side Effects
- Serious side effects of Aubagio
- Severe skin reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome (a condition that causes painful sores on your mouth, throat, eyes, or genitals)
- High blood pressure
- Serious side effects of Tecfidera
- Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), a viral disease of the central nervous system
- Serious side effects for both Aubagio and Tecfidera
- Liver damage, such as liver failure
- Low white blood cell levels
- Severe allergic reactions
Effectiveness
For treating multiple sclerosis, active secondary progressive MS, and CIS, both Aubagio and Tecfidera have proven to be safe and effective. For more information about the effectiveness of these drugs for their approved uses, reach out to your doctor or pharmacist.
Costs
Both Aubagio and Tecfidera are brand-name drugs. Tecfidera comes as the generic drug dimethyl fumarate. Brand-name medications generally cost more than generics.
The actual cost you'll pay depends on your insurance plan, location, and pharmacy.
Aubagio vs. Gilenya
Gilenya is another drug used to treat multiple sclerosis, active secondary progressive MS, or CIS. Compare Aubagio and Gilenya here:
Uses
The FDA has authorized both Aubagio and Gilenya to treat relapsing-remitting MS, active secondary progressive MS, and CIS in adults.
However, Gilenya is also approved for these conditions in children as young as 10 years old.
Aubagio contains the active ingredient teriflunomide, while Gilenya contains fingolimod, a different active ingredient.
Drug Forms and Administration
Aubagio is an oral tablet, and Gilenya is a capsule.
Side Effects and Risks
Aubagio and Gilenya have various side effects. Here are examples of common and serious side effects for each drug:
More common side effects
- More common side effects of Aubagio
- Hair loss or thinning
- Nausea
- Numbness or tingling in your hands or feet
- Joint pain
- Decreased phosphate level
- More common side effects of Gilenya
- Abdominal pain
- Cold symptoms (flu, cough, backache)
- Muscle aches
- Headache
- Numbness or tingling in your extremities
- Common side effects for both Aubagio and Gilenya
- Diarrhea
Serious Side Effects
- Serious side effects of Aubagio
- Severe skin reactions, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome (a condition that causes painful sores on your mouth, throat, eyes, or genitals)
- High blood pressure
- Low white blood cell levels
- Serious side effects of Gilenya
- Skin cancer
- Vision problems
- Sudden confusion
- Serious side effects for both Aubagio and Gilenya
- Liver damage, such as liver failure
- Severe allergic reactions
Effectiveness
For treating multiple sclerosis, active secondary progressive MS, and CIS, both Aubagio and Gilenya have shown to be secure and effective. For more information about the effectiveness of these drugs for their approved uses, chat up your doc or pharmacist.
Costs
Both Aubagio and Gilenya are brand-name drugs. Aubagio comes as the generic drug teriflunomide, while Gilenya comes as the generic drug fingolimod. Brand-name medications usually cost more than generics.
The actual cost you'll pay hinges on your insurance plan, location, and pharmacy.
How to Take Aubagio
Aubagio is an oral pill that you swallow. Follow your doc or healthcare professional's instructions to administer Aubagio.
Timing
Administer Aubagio once daily, preferably at the same time every day.
Taking Aubagio with food
You can take Aubagio with or without food. Taking it with food won't affect how the drug works.
Can I crush, chew, or split Aubagio?
It isn't recommended to crush, split, or chew Aubagio as it has a bitter taste. It's highly recommended to take Aubagio whole.
What tests will I need before starting treatment?
Before starting Aubagio, your doc will order tests to ensure the drug is safe for you. These include:
- Blood tests to evaluate your liver health
- A tuberculosis (TB) skin test or blood test to check for TB
- A complete blood count to check for disease, including progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML)
- A pregnancy test. You should not take Aubagio if you're pregnant.
- A blood pressure check. High blood pressure may increase while taking Aubagio.
- MRI scans both before and during Aubagio treatment to check your brain for changes in lesions (damaged spots)
While using Aubagio, your doc will provide monthly blood tests to check your liver and follow your blood pressure.**
How Aubagio Works
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a persistent illness that attacks your immune system, causing it to target the myelin (outer coating) on nerves in your eyes, brain, and spinal cord. This results in scar tissue, making it hard for your brain to communicate with other body parts.
Aubagio may be prescribed for relapsing-remitting MS, active secondary progressive MS, and CIS.
Aubagio operates differently than other MS treatments. It's the only pyrimidine synthesis inhibitor for treating MS.
The exact mechanism of Aubagio isn't fully known, but it's thought that teriflunomide, the active ingredient in Aubagio, blocks a specific enzyme. Immune cells need this enzyme to multiply swiftly. When the enzyme is blocked, the immune cells can't spread and swarm the myelin.**
Aubagio starts working right away. However, you may not notice relief from symptoms as the drug works to prevent relapses and new lesions.
Aubagio and Pregnancy, Breastfeeding, and Birth Control
If you can get pregnant, are breastfeeding, or are using birth control while taking Aubagio, it's essential to consider your options.
Wanna know more? Click here. If you've got additional questions, hit up your doc.
Common Questions About Aubagio
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Aubagio.
Is Aubagio an immunosuppressant?
Aubagio isn't categorized as an immunosuppressant, but it may suppress your immune system to some degree. If your immune system isn't strong enough to fend off germs, you'll be more susceptible to infections.
How do I perform an "elimination" of Aubagio?
If you're pregnant or want to get pregnant while taking Aubagio, inform your doctor ASAP. They may attempt to quickly withdraw Aubagio from your system.
Aubagio can linger in your system for up to two years following cessation of treatment. To detect its presence, you'll need blood tests.
For a rapid withdrawal or elimination (washout) of Aubagio, your doctor may prescribe cholestyramine or activated charcoal powder.
Does Aubagio cause flushing?
No reports of flushing emerged from Aubagio clinical trials.
However, it's possible to experience an allergic reaction after using Aubagio, one symptom of which is flushing.
Flushing may be a side effect of other multiple sclerosis treatments, such as dimethyl fumarate (Tecfidera).
Will I have withdrawal symptoms if I stop taking Aubagio?
Withdrawal symptoms weren't observed in Aubagio clinical trials.
However, your multiple sclerosis symptoms may worsen once you halt Aubagio treatment. This isn't the same as withdrawal symptoms.
Don't discontinue Aubagio without consulting your doctor first. They can help you manage any worsening symptoms.
Can Aubagio cause cancer? Has it been associated with any deaths?
In Aubagio clinical trials, cancer was not listed as a side effect that occurred. However, a case report detailed a woman with multiple sclerosis who developed follicular lymphoma after taking Aubagio for eight months. The case report did not conclude that Aubagio caused the cancer but did not rule it out either.
Four individuals died during Aubagio clinical trials from heart issues, although it wasn't proven that Aubagio caused these deaths.
Aubagio Warnings
This drug comes with several warnings.
FDA Warnings
Aubagio carries boxed warnings, the Food and Drug Administration's most serious warning. These flag drug effects that may be dangerous.
- Severe liver damage. Aubagio can cause severe liver troubles, including liver failure. Taking Aubagio with other drugs that affect liver function increases the risk of liver damage. One of these drugs is leflunomide (Arava), used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Your doctor will perform blood tests before and during Aubagio treatment to monitor your liver.**
- Risk of fetal harm. If you are pregnant, you should not take Aubagio because it may cause major birth defects. If you are of childbearing age and not using contraception or if you become pregnant while taking Aubagio, inform your doctor immediately.**
Other Warnings
Before commencing Aubagio treatment, discuss your health history with your doctor. Aubagio may not be suitable for folks with specific medical conditions, including:
- Liver disease. Aubagio can cause severe liver damage. If you have liver disease, Aubagio may exacerbate it.
- Previous hypersensitivity reactions. Steer clear of taking Aubagio if you've experienced an allergic reaction to its ingredients.**
Aubagio Overdose
Info on overdosing using more than the prescribed dosage of Aubagio is limited.
What to do in case of overdose
If you suspect you've taken too much Aubagio, reach out to your doc. You can also get in touch with America's Poison Centers at 800-222-1222 or use their online tool. However, if you're experiencing a medical emergency, dial 911 or head to the nearest ER.
Aubagio Expiration, Storage, and Disposal
When you receive Aubagio from the pharmacy, your pharmacist will affix an expiration date to the bottle's label. Typically, this date is around 1 year from the dispensing date.
The Food and Drug Administration advises against using expired medications. It's essential to dispose of expired medications properly to prevent accidental use by children and pets and to protect the environment.
For tips on medication disposal, check out the FDA's disposal guidelines. You can also reach out to your pharmacist for information on properly disposing of your medication.
- Implicit in the text, Aubagio is a drug used for handling Multiple Sclerosis (MS) related situations, such as relapsing-remitting MS, active secondary progressive MS, and clinically isolated syndrome.
- Aubagio can cause side effects like hair loss or thinning, low phosphate levels, decreased white blood cells, nausea, diarrhea, elevated liver enzymes (which can be a sign of liver damage), high blood pressure, numbness or tingling in your hands or feet, and joint pain.
- In the realm of health-and-wellness and fitness-and-exercise, maintaining mental health, skin care, and proper nutrition, along with weight management, are crucial for individuals taking Aubagio to manage their MS effectively.
- Scientific research and medical studies play a significant role in understanding the effectiveness of Aubagio in treating MS, as well as its potential side effects and interactions with other drugs or substances.
- When considering Aubagio as a treatment option, it's essential to consult with health professionals such as doctors or pharmacists to discuss dosage, possible side effects, and potential drug interactions.
- Adhering to a balanced diet and incorporating regular exercise, mental health care, and skin care practices can contribute to overall well-being for individuals managing their MS with the help of Aubagio.
