See why thousands of patients choose our centers as their preferred destination for ongoing care, including Lemtrada Infusion treatments.
Lemtrada is a biologic therapy that is indicated to treat:
- relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) in adults who have tried two or more other MS medications that haven’t worked well enough
What is Lemtrada?
What Is Lemtrada?
Lemtrada (alemtuzumab) is a prescription medication administered for patients in all IVX Health centers via IV infusion for patients with multiple sclerosis (MS).
How Lemtrada Works
Lemtrada works by binding to CD52 on B and T cells, which are two key drivers thought to cause MS inflammation. Lemtrada depletes these cells from circulation.
Lemtrada Infusion Dosage & Administration
Lemtrada Infusion Dosage and Administration
Patients receive alemtuzumab intravenously. At a medical clinic like IVX Health, each infusion takes approximately four hours with a two hour observation period afterwards.
Dosage and Frequency
Typical Lemtrada dosage is 12mg/1.2mL.
Lemtrada infusions are administered in eight doses over two years, on five consecutive days in round one and, one year later, on three consecutive days in round two.
Administering Lemtrada via IV Infusion
- The nurse prepares the patient’s arm by using rubbing alcohol to sterilize the location that is being used to insert the IV needle.
- Following needle insertion, the IV line is held in place with tape.
- The nurse attaches the patient’s IV line to the line coming down from the bag of medication.
Every half-an-hour, the patient’s nurse takes his or her vitals.
Lemtrada Side Effects
Lemtrada Infusion Side Effects
As with all medications, side effects are possible.
The most common side effects of Lemtrada include:
- Rash or hives
- Headache
- Thyroid problems
- Fever
- Swelling of the nose and throat
- Nausea and vomiting
- Urinary tract infection
- Feeling tired
- Trouble sleeping
- Upper respiratory infection
- Herpes viral infection
- Fungal infection
- Joint pain or back pain
- Pain in the arms or legs
- Diarrhea
- Sinus infection
- Mouth pain or sore throat
- Tingling sensation
- Dizziness
- Stomach pain
- Sudden redness in face, neck, or chest
More serious side effects include:
- Autoimmune problems
- Serious allergic reactions
- Stroke and tears in arteries supplying blood to the brain
- Cancer
To decrease the likelihood of the patient experiencing a reaction, he or she may be advised to take certain medications before the next IV infusion treatment with alemtuzumab.
Preparing for Your Lemtrada Infusion
Follow these steps to prepare for your Lemtrada Infusion:
Consult Your Healthcare Provider
- Medical History Review: Ensure your healthcare provider has a complete and up-to-date medical history, including any allergies, current medications, and past reactions to Infusion.
- Pre-Infusion Testing: Complete any required blood tests or other pre-Infusion tests as recommended by your healthcare provider.
Pre-Infusion Medications
- Prescription Pre-Medications: Your Lemtrada Infusion may require pre-medications to reduce the risk of a reaction or adverse event. Your referring provider will include any pre-medications when sending in your prescription order.
- Instructions: Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding these medications, including the timing and dosage. Take these medications about 30-60 minutes before the Infusion as directed.
Hydration and Nutrition
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your Infusion to ensure you are well-hydrated.
- Eat Light: Have a light meal before your Infusion to help maintain your energy levels during the procedure.
Prepare for Comfort
- Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing with easy access to your arms for the Infusion site.
- Entertainment: Bring something to keep you occupied, such as a book, tablet, or music, as your treatment or observation period may take several hours.
Plan for Transportation
- Arrange a Ride: Depending on the medication and your reaction to the Infusion, you might not feel well enough to drive yourself home. Consider arranging for someone to drive you or use a ride service.
By following these steps, you can help ensure that your Lemtrada Infusion is as safe and comfortable as possible. Always follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare team.
How to Get a Referral for Lemtrada
Every Lemtrada Infusion referral must be accompanied by a physician’s order for treatment.
Patient information should include:
- Name
- Current address
- Home and mobile phone number
- Insurance information
Information the physician must include on the patient’s order for therapy:
- Patient’s name and DOB
- Order date
- Diagnosis
- Physician’s name and NPI#
- Office address, phone, and fax numbers
- Provider’s signature
Clinical documentation from the physician should include information to support a diagnosis for one or more of the following:
- relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS) in adults who have tried two or more other MS medications that haven’t worked well enough
If you or someone you care about has one of the conditions that Lemtrada treats, IVX Health would be honored to provide your care. To find an IVX Health center near you, please click here.
Patients choose IVX Health for ongoing Lemtrada treatments because:
- ALL private suites
- Comfortable recliners, with chairs for guests
- Evening & weekend appointments
- Friendly clinical staff deliver personal service
- Big screen TVs, high-speed WiFi, free snacks
Interested in moving your care to IVX Health?
Interested?
IVX Health would love to learn more about your care needs. If you’re interested in switching your infusion services – or if you just want to learn more – let us know.
