Our Therapies

UPLIZNA® Infusion Therapy

About UPLIZNA® Infusion Therapy

UPLIZNA® is a prescription medication that belongs to a class of drugs called monoclonal antibodies. Think of it as a precisely designed tool that targets specific parts of your immune system to help manage your condition. It's given as an intravenous (IV) infusion.

Condition treated by this therapy

UPLIZNA® has been FDA approved for the treatment of Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum disorder (NMOSD) in adults who are anti-aquaporin-4 (AQP4) antibody positive.

Understanding your UPLIZNA® approval and what it means for you:

Significant test results determining the presence of NMOSD is present and the benefits outweigh any risks associated with UPLIZNA®.

Understanding your NMOSD diagnosis:

Neuromyelitis Optic Spectrum Disorder is a rare condition where your immune system mistakenly attacks nerves that control your vision and movement.

UPLIZNA® Price

The cost of prescription medications can vary depending on your insurance coverage. If you're concerned about the price of your medication:

Contact your insurance provider to understand your coverage
Ask your doctor or pharmacist about lower-cost alternatives
Check with the drug manufacturer about financial assistance programs
Explore patient assistance options if you're uninsured or underinsured

Remember, many resources exist to help patients access necessary medications. Don't hesitate to ask for help if you're struggling with medication costs. No patient should go without necessary treatment due to financial limitations. If you have questions about financial assistance opportunities, contact a member of our Violet Health team.

What to Expect During UPLIZNA® Infusion Therapy

Before your infusion, it is important to drink plenty of water and come to your appointment hydrated. Plan to arrive early with all necessary documentation and for administeration of necessary premedications required prior to treatment.

Your dedicated Infusion nurse will check your vitals and review your medical history to check for improvements or potential side effects of your infusion therapy.
You'll recieve any required premedication 30 minutes before your infusion starts.
Your nurse will begin your infusion and check in on you periodically during your treatment.
After your infusion, your nurse will monitor you to ensure you do not have any complications or reactions to the infusion therapy.

Each UPLIZNA® infusion takes approximately 90 minutes delivered slowly through our precise next-generation infusion pumps to ensure your accuracy and safety.

UPLIZNA® Side Effects

While uncommon, infusion reactions can occur. Infusion reactions were observed in 9.3% of NMOSD patients and 7.4% of IgG4-RD patients during clinical trials, with reactions being most common during the first infusion.

Headache
Nausea
Sleepiness
Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
Muscle aches
Fever
Rash
Heart palpitations

Some patients may experience more serious adverse effects such as Anaphylaxis, a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can occure after receiving UPLIZNA®. Symptoms may include:

Breathing problems
Dizziness or fainting
Swelling of the throat or tongue
Chest tightness
Hives

UPLIZNA® Infusion Therapy at Violet Health

Your comfort during UPLIZNA® infusion therapy at Violet Health is our priority. Our patients enjoy walk-up parking, complimentary entertainment and snacks, and a team of highly trained providers during each treatment. Plus, Violet Health’s evening and weekend hours and convenient city and rural locations make it easier to schedule your appointments.

Violet Health Infusion Centers provides infusion therapy for patients with rare, chronic, or complex conditions in a comfortable, patient-centered atmosphere.

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Helpful Resources

Patient Forms

Before you attend your first appointment at Violet Health, please make sure to review the documents below. Please contact us if you have any questions!