About nusinersen
Antisense oligonucleotide therapy
Used for
- Treats spinal muscular atrophy (SMA).
Usual adult dose
12 mg intrathecally: four loading doses, then every four months.
Usual dose in children
12 mg intrathecally: four loading doses, then every four months; dosing schedule is adjusted for infants under two years.
Common side effects
- Headache, back pain, or vomiting after spinal injection.
- Low platelet counts or kidney problems.
- Increased risk of respiratory infections in some patients.
Important warnings
- Given by injection into the spinal fluid by trained clinicians.
- Platelet counts, blood clotting, and kidney function are monitored.
- Spinal procedures may be difficult in patients with scoliosis or spinal fusion.
Pregnancy
Human pregnancy data are limited; potential risks are uncertain.
Breastfeeding
It is unknown whether nusinersen passes into breast milk; effects on infants are uncertain.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.