ZILUCOPLAN: 441 Adverse Event Reports & Safety Profile
Boost Your Natural Energy & Metabolism
Mitolyn — 6 exotic plants to unlock your body's fat-burning power. 90-day guarantee.
Drug Class: Complement Inhibitor [EPC] · Route: SUBCUTANEOUS · Manufacturer: UCB, Inc. · FDA Application: 216834 · HUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUG · FDA Label: Available
Patent Expires: Jun 12, 2035 · First Report: 20221001 · Latest Report: 20250907
What Are the Most Common ZILUCOPLAN Side Effects?
All ZILUCOPLAN Side Effects by Frequency
| Side Effect | Reports | % of Total | Deaths | Hosp. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Myasthenia gravis | 184 | 41.7% | 3 | 60 |
| Drug ineffective | 94 | 21.3% | 4 | 26 |
| Injection site pain | 56 | 12.7% | 3 | 16 |
| Product dose omission issue | 55 | 12.5% | 0 | 25 |
| Fatigue | 36 | 8.2% | 1 | 12 |
| Hospitalisation | 23 | 5.2% | 2 | 23 |
| Weight increased | 22 | 5.0% | 0 | 12 |
| Dyspnoea | 21 | 4.8% | 2 | 12 |
| Diarrhoea | 20 | 4.5% | 1 | 8 |
| Pneumonia | 20 | 4.5% | 2 | 19 |
| Urinary tract infection | 19 | 4.3% | 2 | 8 |
| Weight decreased | 19 | 4.3% | 0 | 11 |
| Covid-19 | 17 | 3.9% | 1 | 8 |
| Wrong technique in product usage process | 16 | 3.6% | 1 | 6 |
| Infection | 15 | 3.4% | 0 | 9 |
| Muscular weakness | 15 | 3.4% | 1 | 5 |
| Myasthenia gravis crisis | 15 | 3.4% | 1 | 14 |
| Needle issue | 15 | 3.4% | 0 | 5 |
| Syringe issue | 15 | 3.4% | 0 | 2 |
| Dizziness | 14 | 3.2% | 1 | 6 |
Who Reports ZILUCOPLAN Side Effects? Age & Gender Data
Gender: 53.6% female, 46.4% male. Average age: 58.8 years. Most reports from: US. View detailed demographics →
Is ZILUCOPLAN Getting Safer? Reports by Year
| Year | Reports | Deaths | Hosp. |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| 2023 | 8 | 1 | 4 |
| 2024 | 185 | 8 | 79 |
| 2025 | 104 | 10 | 50 |
What Is ZILUCOPLAN Used For?
| Indication | Reports |
|---|---|
| Myasthenia gravis | 374 |
| Product used for unknown indication | 55 |
| Muscular weakness | 9 |
ZILUCOPLAN vs Alternatives: Which Is Safer?
Other Drugs in Same Class: Complement Inhibitor [EPC]
Official FDA Label for ZILUCOPLAN
Official prescribing information from the FDA-approved drug label.
Drug Description
Zilucoplan, a complement inhibitor, is a 15 amino-acid, synthetic macrocyclic peptide. The molecular formula of zilucoplan is C 172 H 278 N 24 O 55 in free acid form and its molecular weight is
3562.23 Daltons (free acid form). The chemical name for zilucoplan sodium is: acetyl‐[L-lysyl 1 -L-valyl 2 -L-glutamyl 3 -L-arginyl 4 -L phenylalanyl 5 -L aspartyl 6 ]- N -methyl L-aspartyl 7 -L tert-leucyl 8 -L tyrosyl 9 -L-7-azatryptophyl 10 -L glutamyl 11 -L-tyrosyl 12 -L prolyl 13 -L cyclohexylglycyl 14 -[L-lysyl 15 , N ε -palmitoyl-γ-L-glutamyl-(1-amino-3,6,9,12,15,18,21,24,27,30,33,36,39,42,45,48,51,54,57,60,63,66,69,72-tetracosaoxapentaheptacontan-75-oyl)], cyclic (Lactam 1-6), tetra sodium. The primary structure for zilucoplan sodium is shown below: ZILBRYSQ injection is a sterile, clear to slightly opalescent, colorless, preservative-free, buffered solution of zilucoplan (as zilucoplan sodium) for subcutaneous injection, in single-dose prefilled syringes. The solution pH is between 6.5 and 7.5. ZILBRYSQ is supplied in three dose strengths containing 16.6 mg /0.416 mL, 23 mg /0.574 mL, and 32.4 mg/0.81 mL of zilucoplan free acid equivalent to 17 mg, 23.6 mg, and 33.2 mg of zilucoplan sodium, respectively. Additionally, each mL of the solution contains dibasic sodium phosphate, anhydrous (4.11 mg); monobasic sodium phosphate, monohydrate (2.9 mg); sodium chloride (4.42 mg); and water for injection.
Chemical
Structure
FDA Approved Uses (Indications)
AND USAGE ZILBRYSQ is indicated for the treatment of generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) in adult patients who are anti-acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibody positive. ZILBRYSQ is a complement inhibitor indicated for the treatment of generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) in adult patients who are anti-acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibody positive. ( 1 )
Dosage & Administration
AND ADMINISTRATION Obtain baseline amylase and lipase. ( 2.2 ) For subcutaneous injection only. ( 2.3 ) Recommended dosage ( 2.3 ): Body Weight Once Daily Dosage Plunger Rod Color of Prefilled Syringe Less than 56 kg 16.6 mg RUBINE RED 56 kg to less than 77 kg 23 mg ORANGE 77 kg and above 32.4 mg DARK BLUE See Full Prescribing Information for instructions on dosage, preparation, and administration. ( 2.4 , 2.5 )
2.1 Recommended Vaccination and Prophylaxis for Meningococcal Infection Vaccinate patients against meningococcal infection (serogroups A, C, W, Y, and B) according to current ACIP recommendations at least 2 weeks prior to initiation of ZILBRYSQ <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]</span> . If urgent ZILBRYSQ therapy is indicated in a patient who is not up to date with meningococcal vaccines according to ACIP recommendations, provide the patient with antibacterial drug prophylaxis and administer these vaccines as soon as possible <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]</span> . Healthcare providers who prescribe ZILBRYSQ must enroll in the ZILBRYSQ REMS <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ]</span> .
2.2 Recommended Testing Before Initiating ZILBRYSQ Before initiating ZILBRYSQ, obtain baseline lipase and amylase levels <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ]</span> .
2.3 Recommended Dosage The recommended dosage of ZILBRYSQ is given once daily as a subcutaneous injection and is dependent on actual body weight (see Table 1 ).
Table
1: Total Daily Dosage by Body Weight Range Body Weight Once Daily Dosage Plunger Rod Color of Prefilled Syringe Less than 56 kg 16.6 mg RUBINE RED 56 kg to less than 77 kg 23 mg ORANGE 77 kg and above 32.4 mg DARK BLUE
2.4 Preparation Instructions ZILBRYSQ prefilled syringes can be stored in a refrigerator in the original carton. ZILBRYSQ can also be stored at room temperature in the original carton for up to 3 months or until the expiration date, whichever occurs first. If stored in the refrigerator: Before injecting, take 1 ZILBRYSQ prefilled syringe out of the refrigerator and place it on a clean, flat surface. Allow ZILBRYSQ to reach room temperature out of direct sunlight (30 to 45 minutes). Do not heat or place in microwave. Immediately return the carton with the other prefilled syringes to the refrigerator. If stored at room temperature: Remove 1 ZILBRYSQ prefilled syringe from the carton. Do not return ZILBRYSQ to the refrigerator after it has been stored at room temperature. Visually inspect ZILBRYSQ for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration. ZILBRYSQ is a clear to slightly opalescent, colorless solution. Do not use if the solution contains visible particles, is cloudy, or if foreign particulate matter is present. ZILBRYSQ does not contain preservatives; unused portions of drug remaining in the syringe should be discarded. Each prefilled syringe is single-dose only.
2.5 Administration Instructions ZILBRYSQ is intended for use under the guidance and supervision of a healthcare professional. Patients may self-inject ZILBRYSQ after training in subcutaneous injection technique. Provide proper training to patients and/or caregivers on the subcutaneous injection technique of ZILBRYSQ according to the "Instructions for Use" <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Instructions for Use ]</span> . Administer ZILBRYSQ subcutaneously into areas of the abdomen, thighs, or back of the upper arms that are not tender, bruised, red, or hard. Avoid injecting into areas with scars or stretch marks. Rotate injection sites for each administration. Administration of ZILBRYSQ in the upper, outer arm should be performed by a caregiver. When using ZILBRYSQ prefilled syringes, inject the full contents of the single-dose prefilled syringe. Discard ZILBRYSQ prefilled syringe after use. Do not reuse. Instruct the patient that the daily dose should be administered at approximately the same time each day. If a dose is missed, administer the dose as soon as possible. Thereafter, resume dosing at the regular scheduled time. Do not administer more than 1 dose per day.
Contraindications
ZILBRYSQ is contraindicated for initiation in patients with unresolved serious Neisseria meningitidis infection [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . ZILBRYSQ is contraindicated for initiation in patients with unresolved serious Neisseria meningitidis infection. ( 4 )
Known Adverse Reactions
REACTIONS The following clinically significant adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the labeling: Serious Meningococcal Infections [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]
Other
Infections [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Pancreatitis and Other Pancreatic Conditions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] The most common adverse reactions (≥10%) in patients with gMG were injection site reactions, upper respiratory tract infection, and diarrhea. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact UCB, Inc. at 844-599-2273 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. A total of 212 patients were treated with ZILBRYSQ 0.3 mg/kg in clinical studies in gMG. Of these, 137 patients were exposed for at least 6 months, and 87 were exposed for at least 1 year. In a placebo-controlled study (Study 1) in patients with gMG, 86 patients received ZILBRYSQ 0.3 mg/kg <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Clinical Studies (14) ]</span> . Of these 86 patients, approximately 61% were female, 77% were White, 8% were Asian, and 8% were of Hispanic or Latino ethnicity. The mean age at study entry was 52.6 years (range 21 to 75 years).
Table
2 summarizes the adverse reactions reported in at least 5% of patients treated with ZILBRYSQ and more frequently than placebo. The most common adverse reactions (reported in at least 10% of patients treated with ZILBRYSQ) were injection site reactions, upper respiratory tract infections, and diarrhea.
Table
2: Adverse Reactions in at least 5% of Patients Treated with ZILBRYSQ and More Frequently than in Patients who Received Placebo in Study 1 Adverse Reaction ZILBRYSQ 0.3 mg/kg (n=86) % Placebo (n=88) % Injection site reactions 29 16 Upper respiratory tract infections 14 7 Diarrhea 11 2 Urinary tract infection 8 5 Nausea or vomiting 8 7 Lipase increased 7 0 Amylase increased 5 1 Pancreatic Events In addition to increases in amylase and lipase observed in Study 1, pancreatic events, including pancreatitis and pancreatic cysts have been observed in patients taking ZILBRYSQ [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] .
Adverse Laboratory
Changes in Clinical Trials Additional laboratory abnormalities included transient elevations of blood eosinophils, which were of uncertain clinical significance.
6.2 Postmarketing Experience Adverse Reactions from Observational Studies Morphea In the open-label extension studies, which included 213 patients, morphea was observed in 10 (5%) patients; most cases had a time to onset longer than one year after start of treatment and were mild to moderate in severity. One patient discontinued ZILBRYSQ because of morphea.
FDA Boxed Warning
WARNING: SERIOUS MENINGOCOCCAL INFECTIONS ZILBRYSQ, a complement inhibitor, increases the risk of serious infections caused by Neisseria meningitidis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . Life-threatening and fatal meningococcal infections have occurred in patients treated with complement inhibitors. These infections may become rapidly life-threatening or fatal if not recognized and treated early. Complete or update vaccination for meningococcal bacteria (for serogroups A, C, W, Y, and B) at least 2 weeks prior to the first dose of ZILBRYSQ, unless the risks of delaying therapy outweigh the risk of developing a serious infection. Comply with the most current Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommendations for vaccination against meningococcal bacteria in patients receiving a complement inhibitor.
See
Warnings and Precautions (5.1) for additional guidance on the management of the risk of serious infections caused by meningococcal bacteria. Patients receiving ZILBRYSQ are at increased risk for invasive disease caused by Neisseria meningitidis , even if they develop antibodies following vaccination. Monitor patients for early signs and symptoms of serious meningococcal infections and evaluate immediately if infection is suspected. Because of the risk of serious meningococcal infections, ZILBRYSQ is available only through a restricted program under a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) called ZILBRYSQ REMS [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . WARNING: SERIOUS MENINGOCOCCAL INFECTIONS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. ZILBRYSQ increases the risk of serious and life-threatening infections caused by Neisseria meningitidis . ( 5.1 ) Complete or update meningococcal vaccination at least 2 weeks prior to the first dose of ZILBRYSQ, unless the risks of delaying ZILBRYSQ outweigh the risks of developing a serious infection. Comply with the most current Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommendations for meningococcal vaccination in patients receiving a complement inhibitor. ( 5.1 ) Patients receiving ZILBRYSQ are at increased risk for invasive disease caused by N. meningitidis , even if they develop antibodies following vaccination. Monitor patients for early signs and symptoms of meningococcal infections and evaluate immediately if infection is suspected. ( 5.1 ) ZILBRYSQ is available only through a restricted program called ZILBRYSQ REMS. ( 5.2 )
Warnings
AND PRECAUTIONS Other Infections: Use caution when administering ZILBRYSQ to patients with any other systemic infection. ( 5.3 ) Pancreatitis and pancreatic cysts have been reported in patients treated with ZILBRYSQ. Discontinue ZILBRYSQ in patients with suspected pancreatitis and initiate appropriate management until pancreatitis is ruled out or has resolved. ( 5.4 )