EMA recommends temporary restriction on use of Lemtrada

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has started a review of Lemtrada (alemtuzumab) following reports of side effects affecting the heart, blood vessels, liver and immune system.  These side effects are rare but potentially serious.

As a temporary measure while the review is being carried out, the EMA has advised that Lemtrada should only be started in people with relapsing remitting MS that continues to be very active despite taking at least two disease modifying drugs (DMDs) or where other DMDs cannot be taken. 

If you have already started Lemtrada and are due to receive further infusions, you should continue with treatment.  Anyone who has been treated with Lemtrada should continue to have monthly blood and urine tests for four years after the last treatment course.

If you have concerns, you should talk to your neurologist or MS nurse.