Aubagio Unleashed
Aubagio: Details on side effects, application for MS, pricing, and additional information
Aubagio, a popular prescription medication, is commonly used to treat various conditions in adults. These conditions include relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (MS), active secondary progressive MS, and clinically isolated syndrome (CIS). It's no secret that Aubagio can cause a range of side effects, but what are the nastiest ones you should beware of?
Get ready to lose some locks
One of the more common side effects you might experience when taking Aubagio is hair loss, also known as alopecia. This isn't surprising, given that this medication affects your immune system. In clinical trials, about 13% of people who took Aubagio had alopecia[1]. Don't freak out just yet; the good news is that this side effect was typically temporary, and most people's hair grew back within a few months.
Stomach troubles galore
Diarrhea is another common side effect you might encounter when taking Aubagio. About 14% of people who took Aubagio during clinical trials experienced diarrhea, compared to 8% of those who took a placebo (no treatment)[1]. Most cases of diarrhea were mild to moderate and went away on their own. To ease mild diarrhea, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water or electrolyte solutions. If your diarrhea lasts several days or is severe, contact your doctor.
Watch out for liver issues
Aubagio has a boxed warning, the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) most serious warning, for severe liver damage. In clinical trials, about 6% of people who took Aubagio had increased levels of liver enzymes, compared to 4% of those who took a placebo[1]. Although uncommon, there have been cases of severe liver damage, including hepatitis and hepatic failure, associated with Aubagio use. To monitor your liver health, your doctor will give you monthly blood tests while you take Aubagio.
Skin problems, oh my!
Aubagio can cause severe skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), and drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS). SJS can cause painful sores on your mouth, throat, eyes, or genitals, while TEN is a more severe form of SJS that affects more than 30% of your body and can be fatal. DRESS may cause a serious skin rash as well as problems with your organs. These serious skin reactions are medical emergencies, so if you notice skin peeling, discoloration, or blistering, tell your doctor immediately.
Other noteworthy side effects
Other possible side effects of Aubagio include:
- Influenza-like symptoms (fever, body aches)
- Low white blood cell count (neutropenia), increasing your risk of infection
- Breathing problems, including interstitial lung disease (ILD)
- Peripheral neuropathy (numbness, tingling, or weakness in hands or feet)
- Severe allergic reactions, such as swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat, or anaphylaxis
Since Aubagio can weaken your immune system, you may be at increased risk for other infections. Always consult your doctor if you have any concerns or questions. Whether you're dealing with common side effects like hair loss or more serious concerns like liver damage, it's essential to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your Aubagio experience.
[1] Multiple Sclerosis Foundation. (2019). Aubagio (Teriflunomide) Side Effects. [online] Available at: https://multiplesclerosisnews.org/drugs/aubagio/side-effects/[2] U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2021, August 31). Aubagio: Medication Guide. [online] Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2021/021296s053lbl.pdf[3] Ritchie, S., Amato, V., Benedict, R., Contant, C., Cree, B., Hughes, R., ... & Morrow, A. (2020). Treating MS symptoms: A self-empowerment approach using the best research evidence available. Mayo Clinic Press.[4] National Multiple Sclerosis Society. (2022). Drugs for relapsing forms of MS. [online] Available at: https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Treating-MS/Managing-Symptoms/Managing-Relapses/Relapses-and- MS-Treatments/Drugs-for-Relapsing-Forms-of-MS#Aubagio
- While Aubagio can offer relief for those with multiple sclerosis, it's essential to recognize and manage its potential side effects.
- Entrusted deciders of health-and-wellness should be aware of the possibility of skin-care issues such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, and drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms during Aubagio treatment.
- Nutrition and weight-management are critical aspects of holistic health, and managing weight becomes crucial if Aubagio causes liver problems, triggering increased levels of liver enzymes.
- Mental health is of utmost importance, and maintaining mental well-being is vital as Aubagio can lead to flu-like symptoms.
- Fitness-and-exercise play a significant role in overall wellness, but individuals using Aubagio should be cautious about peripheral neuropathy, which can manifest as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hands or feet.
- Diligent monitoring of liver health through regular blood tests and consultations with healthcare providers is an essential part of managing potential liver issues related to the use of Aubagio.
