Binds to P-selectin on the surface of the activated endothelium and platelets to prevent their interaction with endothelial cells, platelets, red blood cells, and white blood cells.
Monitor frequency of vaso-occlusive crises during therapy.
Monitor for signs and symptoms of infusion-related reactions (severe pain, fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, dizziness, pruritus, urticaria, sweating, shortness of breath, wheezing) during and within 24 hr of infusion. For mild to moderate reactions, interrupt infusion or slow rate of infusion. Begin symptomatic therapy (acetaminophen, NSAIDs, opioids, antihistamines, intravenous fluids, and/or oxygen therapy). Consider premedication and/or reduce infusion rate of subsequent infusions. Discontinue therapy for severe reactions.
Lab Test Considerations:
May interfere with automated platelet counts (platelet clumping), in particular when blood samples are collected in tubes containing ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid. Run blood samples within 4 hr of blood collection or collect blood samples in tubes containing citrate. When needed, estimate platelet count via peripheral blood smear.
Intermittent Infusion: Obtain number of vials needed; one vial for every 10 mL crizanlizumab. Allow vials to reach room temperature for up to 4 hr before preparing. Solution is clear to opalescent, colorless, or may have a slightly brownish-yellow tint; do not use solutions with particulate matter. Dilution: Dilute in 0.9% NaCl or D5W to a total volume of 100 mL in an infusion bag of either polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, or polypropylene by withdrawing the volume to be added. Gently invert to mix; do not shake. Solution is stable for up to 4.5 hr at room temperature, including infusion time and up to 24 hr if refrigerated and protected from light.
Rate: Infuse over 30 min through a sterile, nonpyrogenic 0.2 micron inline filter. Flush the line with at least 25 mL of 0.9% NaCl or D5W following infusion.
Y-Site Incompatibility: Do not mix or coadminister with other drugs through the same IV line.
Explain the purpose of crizanlizumab to patient. Do not stop receiving crizanlizumab without consulting health care professional. If an appointment is missed, contact health care professional as soon as possible to reschedule. Advise patient to read Medication Guide before starting and periodically during therapy in case of changes.
Advise patient to notify health care professional if signs and symptoms of infusion reactions (fever, chills or shivering, nausea, vomiting, tiredness, dizziness, sweating, hives, itching, shortness of breath, wheezing) occur.
Instruct patient to inform health care professional of crizanlizumab therapy before blood tests due to potential interference with laboratory tests used to measure platelet counts.
Advise patient to notify health care professional of all Rx or OTC medications, vitamins, or herbal products being taken and to consult with health care professional before taking other medications.
Rep: May cause fetal harm. Advise patient to notify health care professional if pregnancy is planned or suspected or if breastfeeding.