Skip to main content

Ultomiris: Uses, How It Works, and Common Side Effects

Ultomiris is an intravenous infusion used to treat rare conditions caused by an overactive immune system, including paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome, generalized myasthenia gravis, and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder.

Video transcript

Ultomiris is an intravenous infusion used to treat rare conditions caused by an overactive immune system, including paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria, atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome, generalized myasthenia gravis, and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder.

It was first approved by the FDA in 2018.

This medication works by inhibiting a part of the immune system called the complement system, specifically a protein called C5.

Blocking the C5 protein prevents the immune system from attacking and damaging its cells, so symptoms improve.

Ultomiris is given as an intravenous infusion by a healthcare professional.

The dosage depends on your body weight, but it is usually given every 4 to 8 weeks after initial dosing.

The most common side effects of Ultomiris are fever, high blood pressure, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, headache, and cold symptoms.

Some people might experience infusion-related reactions, including chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling in the face or tongue, and feeling dizzy.

It also increases the risk for serious infections.

This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

Always consult with your healthcare provider.

Recommended videos

Entyvio: Uses, How it Works & Common Side Effects

Entyvio is used for ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease to help improve symptoms, induce remission, and may also reduce the need for steroid medicines to control symptoms long-term.

Simple squat and reach exercises with fitness ball

You can do many exercises with a fitness ball. See the simple squat and reach.

Jornay PM: Uses, How It Works, and Common Side Effects

Jornay PM is a once-a-day capsule used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, often called ADHD for short, in patients 6 years and older.

Cryotherapy of the esophagus

Cryotherapy video shows use of extreme cold treatment for Barrett's esophagus and esophageal cancer.

Seated leg press with weight machine

The leg press exercise strengthens the lower body. See how it's done.

Browse by category

By medication