Spinraza Special Precautions

Lumbar puncture procedure: There is a risk of adverse reactions occurring as part of the lumbar puncture procedure (e.g. headache, back pain, vomiting; see Adverse Reactions). Potential difficulties with this route of administration may be seen in very young patients and those with scoliosis. The use of ultrasound or other imaging techniques to assist with intrathecal administration of Spinraza, can be considered at the physician's discretion.
Thrombocytopenia and coagulation abnormalities: Thrombocytopenia and coagulation abnormalities, including acute severe thrombocytopenia, have been observed after administration of other subcutaneously or intravenously administered antisense oligonucleotides. If clinically indicated, platelet and coagulation laboratory testing is recommended prior to administration of Spinraza.
Renal toxicity: Renal toxicity has been observed after administration of other subcutaneously and intravenously administered antisense oligonucleotides. If clinically indicated, urine protein testing (preferably using a first morning urine specimen) is recommended. For persistent elevated urinary protein, further evaluation should be considered.
Hydrocephalus: There have been reports of communicating hydrocephalus not related to meningitis or bleeding in patients treated with nusinersen in the post-marketing setting. Some patients were implanted with a ventriculo-peritoneal shunt. In patients with decreased consciousness, an evaluation for hydrocephalus should be considered. The benefits and risks of nusinersen treatment in patients with a ventriculo-peritoneal shunt are unknown at present and the maintenance of treatment needs to be carefully considered.
Excipients: Sodium: This medicinal product contains less than 1 mmol sodium (23 mg) per 5 ml vial, that is to say essentially 'sodium-free'.
Potassium: This medicinal product contains potassium, less than 1 mmol (39 mg) per 5 ml vial, i.e. essentially 'potassium-free'.
Effects on ability to drive and use machines: Nusinersen has no or negligible influence on the ability to drive and use machines.