Key takeaways
- Uplizna is used to treat certain autoimmune disorders.
- It comes as a liquid solution that’s given as an intravenous (IV) infusion. After the initial doses, Uplizna is typically given every 6 months.
Uplizna is a prescription drug used to treat:
- neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder, which may also be called neuromyelitis optica or Devic’s disease
- immunoglobulin G4-related disease (IgG4-RD), which may also be called IgG4-related sclerosing disease or IgG4-related systemic disease
This article describes the dosages of Uplizna, its strength, and how it’s given. To learn more about this medication, including its side effects and uses, read this in-depth Uplizna article.
The following highlights the basics of Uplizna’s form and strength.
Uplizna form
Uplizna is available as a liquid solution in a single-dose vial.
Uplizna strength
Uplizna comes in one strength of 100 milligrams (mg) per 10 milliliters (mL) of liquid solution.
Uplizna is approved to treat certain autoimmune disorders: neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder and immunoglobulin G4-related disease.
The typical starting Uplizna dosage for adults with these conditions is 300 milligrams (mg), given by intravenous (IV) infusion, which is an injection into a vein given over a period of time.
You’ll receive your first two doses 2 weeks apart. Then, you’ll receive your third dose 6 months after your first dose. After this, you’ll typically receive one dose every 6 months.
Always follow your doctor’s instructions. Notify them if you experience any side effects that may prevent you from receiving your medication.
Uplizna is administered by a doctor, nurse, or other healthcare professional. You will typically receive Uplizna in a clinical setting, such as a hospital or infusion center.
Uplizna is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion by a healthcare professional. Infusions usually take about 90 minutes.
Before each infusion, you’ll receive medications to help prevent infusion side effects that you may have with Uplizna infusions. Medications you’ll typically receive include:
- acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- an antihistamine, such as diphenhydramine
- an IV corticosteroid, such as methylprednisolone (Solu-Medrol)
A healthcare professional will monitor you for side effects during Uplizna infusions and for at least 1 hour afterward.
How long do you receive Uplizna?
Uplizna is usually a long-term treatment. If you and your doctor determine that it’s safe and effective for your condition, you’ll likely receive it long term once you reach your maintenance dose.
Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.