Alemtuzumab

Alemtuzumab is a very strong treatment for highly active relapsing multiple sclerosis. It is given as a drip in hospital over two short courses, a year apart.

Type of medicine

Disease-modifying therapy for multiple sclerosis

Also known as

Lemtrada

Comes as

drip into a vein (infusion)

How you get it

Given in hospital or by a specialist team

What it is used for

Highly active relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis, when other treatments have not worked or are not suitable

Read our guides:

Multiple sclerosis

Off-label uses

Doctors sometimes prescribe a medicine for a condition it is not officially licensed for. This is called off-label use. It is legal and common when there is good evidence it helps, and your doctor should explain why they are suggesting it.

Alemtuzumab is not commonly used off-label.

How it works

Alemtuzumab targets a protein called CD52 on immune cells (lymphocytes). It removes many of these cells, and the immune system then slowly rebuilds itself in a way that is less likely to attack the nerves.

Side effects

Like all medicines, Alemtuzumab can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Many are mild and ease after the first few weeks.

Common side effects

infusion reactions such as headache
rash
flushing
high temperature or feeling sick
infections such as colds and urine infections
tiredness

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if these bother you or do not go away.

Serious side effects

These are rare. Call 111 or contact your doctor straight away if you get:

thyroid problems, such as weight changes, feeling hot or cold, or a fast heartbeat
unusual bruising, bleeding, nosebleeds or tiny red spots on the skin
blood in your pee, or swollen legs
sudden weakness, numbness, face drooping or a severe headache, which can be signs of a stroke

Call 999 if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of your lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or trouble breathing.

You can report any side effect to the Yellow Card scheme, run by the medicines regulator.

Stopping and withdrawal

Important safety information

Regular monitoring for 4 years after treatment is essential.
Avoid pregnancy during treatment and for 4 months after each course.
Use of this medicine is restricted because of rare serious side effects.

Questions about your medicine?

A pharmacist can answer questions about your medicines for free, without an appointment. You can also ask your GP for a medication review. Check if you can get free prescriptions.