Soliris contains Eculizumab, a biologic medicine used to treat rare, serious blood and kidney disorders. It is a monoclonal antibody that works by inhibiting part of the immune system called the complement system, which can mistakenly attack healthy cells. Soliris helps prevent disease progression and reduces complications in these conditions.

Mechanism of action:
Eculizumab binds to complement protein C5, blocking its activation. This prevents the formation of the membrane attack complex (MAC) that can destroy red blood cells or damage kidney cells. By inhibiting this pathway, Soliris reduces hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells), kidney injury, and other immune-mediated damage.

Uses:

• Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) – a condition where red blood cells are destroyed prematurely

• Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) – a rare disease causing kidney failure and low platelet count

• Sometimes used for generalized myasthenia gravis in adults with specific antibodies

Adverse effects:
Common side effects include headache, nausea, fever, and upper respiratory tract infections. Serious risks include meningococcal infections, which can be life-threatening. Patients must be vaccinated against meningococcus before starting treatment. Other rare effects include infusion reactions, allergic reactions, or liver problems.