Formulary
Nusinersen: Indications, Dosing, Side Effects and Interactions
Nusinersen is an antisense oligonucleotide that increases the production of survival motor neurone (SMN) protein, thereby helping to compensate for the defect...
MedNext Academy | 3 min read
Nusinersen: Indications, Dosing, Side Effects and Interactions
Nusinersen is an antisense oligonucleotide that increases the production of survival motor neurone (SMN) protein, thereby helping to compensate for the defect...
Drug action
Nusinersen is an antisense oligonucleotide that increases the production of survival motor neurone (SMN) protein, thereby helping to compensate for the defect in the SMN1 gene found in 5q spinal muscular atrophy.
Indications and dose
**5q spinal muscular atrophy (initiated by a specialist) for nusinersen**
- **Neonate** (By intrathecal injection): Initially 12 mg for 4 doses on days 0, 14, 28 and 63, then 12 mg every 4 months, for advice on missed doses-consult product literature.
- **Child** (By intrathecal injection): Initially 12 mg for 4 doses on days 0, 14, 28 and 63, then 12 mg every 4 months, for advice on missed doses-consult product literature.
Cautions
Risk factors for renal toxicity-monitor urine protein (preferably using a first morning urine specimen); risk factors for thrombocytopenia and coagulation disorders-monitor platelet and coagulation profile before treatment
Side effects
Frequency not known Arachnoiditis; hydrocephalus; meningitis
Interactions
**Other interactions (1):**
- There is no efficacy or safety data to support the concomitant use of risdiplam and nusinersen.
Pregnancy
Manufacturer advises avoid-no information available.
Breast feeding
Manufacturer advises avoid-no information available.
Renal impairment
Manufacturer advises close monitoring-safety and efficacy not established.
Medicinal forms
Clinical governance
**Author:** MedNext Clinical Team. **Clinical reviewer:** Dr Shameer Deen, MBBS, MS, MRCS. **Sources:** BNF, Indian Pharmacopoeia, CIMS India. **Correction:** Report errors at support@mednext.academy.
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