Raptiva Efalizumab psoriasis drug

Here is an extract from Raptiva's manufacturer information;

Patient Information
RAPTIVA (Rap-TEE-vah)
(efalizumab)
for injection, subcutaneous

Read the Patient Information that comes with RAPTIVAŽ (efalizumab) before you start using it and each time you get a refill. There may be new information. This information does not take the place of talking with your healthcare provider about your medical condition or treatment. It is important to remain under a healthcare provider's care while using RAPTIVA. Do not change or stop treatment without first talking with your healthcare provider. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions about RAPTIVA.

WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT INFORMATION I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT RAPTIVA?

RAPTIVA can decrease the activity of your immune system. Therefore, people using RAPTIVA may have an increased chance of getting:

Serious infections. Some infections could become serious and in rare cases may lead to death. If you have an infection, tell your healthcare provider before you start using RAPTIVA. If you get an infection that does not go away while taking RAPTIVA, tell your healthcare provider right away.

Cancers. Many drugs that decrease the activity of the immune system can increase the risk of cancer. If you have had cancer you should tell your healthcare provider before you start taking RAPTIVA. The role of RAPTIVA in the development of cancer is not known.

Low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia). Platelets help your blood clot. Low platelets give you a higher chance for bleeding. Call your doctor right away if you have increased bruising or bleeding. Your healthcare provider may do regular blood tests to check your platelets while you are taking RAPTIVA.

Low blood counts (anemia). RAPTIVA may increase the breakdown of your red blood cells and cause very low blood counts. Call your doctor right away if you feel weak and lightheaded, your skin and eyes turn yellow in color or your urine turns red or dark.
Worsening of psoriasis. Some patients have had severe worsening or new forms of psoriasis while taking RAPTIVA or after stopping RAPTIVA. Tell your healthcare provider right away if your psoriasis gets worse or if you see any new rashes during or after treatment with RAPTIVA.

Arthritis. Some patients have had worsening or new arthritis while taking RAPTIVA or after stopping RAPTIVA. Tell your health care provider if you have severe redness, pain, swelling, or stiffness of joints such as hands, knees, ankles, etc.

You should not receive vaccines while using RAPTIVA. RAPTIVA may prevent a vaccine from working. Talk to your healthcare provider if you need to receive a vaccine while using RAPTIVA.