Common questions about Kevzara

Can I take Kevzara with another biologic drug for RA?

It's not advised, so no. Although Kevzara has not been studied in combination with other biologic medications for RA, you should avoid doing so. A biologic is a medication created using living materials like proteins or DNA. Kevzara is a biologic substance.

Numerous biologics can impair your immune system and raise your susceptibility to infection. Your body's defense against infections is your immune system. Therefore, taking two biologics increases your risk of developing serious infections.

Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers are one class of additional biologic drugs used to treat RA. These medications reduce inflammation (swelling) by blocking a protein called TNF. When taking Kevzara, you should refrain from taking TNF blockers like:

• adalimumab (Humira)
• etanercept (Enbrel)
• infliximab (Remicade)
• golimumab (Simponi)

Can Kevzara cause hair loss?

Hair loss was not a side effect that Kevzara users experienced in clinical trials. However, the use of additional rheumatoid arthritis (RA) medications may be associated with hair loss.

Methotrexate in particular is one RA medication that can make people lose their hair. Methotrexate works by slowing down cell growth, which reduces inflammation (swelling). Among these cells are those in your hair follicles (sacs under your skin that hold the roots of your hair). Your hair could start to fall out if these cells stop growing. The Arthritis Foundation reports that 1% to 3% of methotrexate users experience hair loss.

Methotrexate can also lower folic acid levels in the body. Folic acid promotes the health of your hair. Methotrexate, if used in conjunction with Kevzara, may be the cause of your hair loss. Leflunomide (Arava), etanercept (Enbrel), and adalimumab (Humira) are other RA medications that can cause hair loss.

Consult your doctor if you are concerned about hair loss or how to prevent it while taking Kevzara.

What if I miss a dose?

As long as it is not almost time for your next dose of Kevzara, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Ask your doctor when you should receive your next injection if you miss a dose. Set a reminder on your phone to make sure you don't forget to take a dose. You could also schedule your injections using a calendar.

Will I need to use this drug long-term?

Kevzara is intended to be used as a long-term RA treatment. If you and your doctor decide that Kevzara is safe and effective for you, you will most likely continue to take it.