Eculizumab
Written By Dr. Anuj Saini
Reviewed By Dr. Rajeev SharmaLast updated 20 Jan 2026 | 08:10 PM (UTC)
Eculizumab Uses
Eculizumab is used in the treatment of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria and Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome.
How Eculizumab works
Eculizumab works by blocking the complement protein C5, which plays a key role in damaging red blood cells and blood vessels. This medicine prevents C5 from becoming active, which stops red blood cell destruction in paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria and reduces blood vessel and kidney damage in atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome.
Common side effects of Eculizumab
Headache, Nasopharyngitis (inflammation of the throat and nasal passages), Back pain, Nausea
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Expert advice for Eculizumab
- Attend all infusion appointments. Missing doses may reduce the protection this medicine gives your red blood cells.
- Stay alert for infection symptoms. Seek immediate medical help if you develop fever, chills, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, or sudden headache.
- Inform your doctor about any ongoing infections before each Eculizumab infusion.
- Stay well-hydrated and maintain regular health checkups to monitor your blood counts and organ function.
Frequently asked questions for Eculizumab
It helps protect your red blood cells from being destroyed, which reduces symptoms like fatigue, dark urine, and the risk of blood clots.
It is given through an intravenous (IV) infusion at a hospital or clinic under medical supervision.
Report fever, severe headache, stiff neck, or rash immediately, as these may be signs of a serious infection.
Treatment is usually long-term, depending on how your condition responds.
Eculizumab weakens a part of the immune system that protects against meningococcal infections. Vaccination against meningococcal serogroups A, C, W, Y, and B helps reduce the risk of serious infection and should be given at least 2 weeks before starting treatment.