Canakinumab (Ilaris) is a monoclonal antibody targeting interleukin-1β, mainly indicated for the treatment of various autoimmune diseases such as periodic fever syndromes, adult-onset and juvenile-onset Still’s disease, and gout flares. As a prescription medication, its purchasing channels, usage precautions, and authenticity identification are crucial for the safety of patients' treatment.
What Are the Purchasing Channels for Canakinumab (Ilaris)?
Overseas Purchase
Patients can choose to consult and purchase canakinumab at hospital pharmacies or regular drugstores in countries or regions where the drug has been approved for marketing.
Since drug prices may be affected by factors such as regional differences and exchange rate fluctuations, patients need to make budget and planning before purchasing.
Purchase via Medical Service Institutions
Patients can consult domestic overseas medical service institutions that cooperate with international pharmacies or pharmaceutical companies.
These institutions can usually provide legal import channels and professional consulting and guidance services.
Precautions for Purchasing and Using Canakinumab (Ilaris)
Strictly Follow the Prescription
Canakinumab should be administered individually based on the patient's body weight and indication.
Unauthorized dose adjustment may increase the risk of severe infections.
Contraindications and High-Risk Populations
It is contraindicated in patients with confirmed hypersensitivity to canakinumab or its excipients.
Patients with active infections, immune deficiency, or those receiving TNF inhibitors should avoid using this drug.
Vaccine Administration Management
Before initiating treatment, adult and pediatric patients should complete all recommended vaccinations (e.g., pneumococcal vaccine, inactivated influenza vaccine).
Live vaccines are prohibited during the treatment period.
Storage and Transportation Specifications
Unopened vials should be stored refrigerated at 2°C-8°C, protected from freezing and light exposure.
Before injection, check whether the solution is clear and transparent; if obvious discoloration or particles are present, the drug should be discarded immediately.
Monitoring for Severe Infections
During medication, close monitoring for infection symptoms such as fever, cough, and diarrhea is required.
If a severe infection occurs, the drug should be discontinued immediately and standard treatment should be administered.
Authenticity Identification of Canakinumab (Ilaris)
Verification of Packaging Labels
The genuine outer packaging should contain a complete package insert, Novartis Pharmaceuticals’ enterprise information, approval number, and production batch number.
The U.S. packaging is marked with the NDC code 0078-0734-61.
Verification of Drug Solution Properties
Canakinumab injection should be a colorless to pale yellowish-brown clear liquid.
Any turbidity, precipitation, or abnormal color indicates a substandard product.
