Bezlotoxumab injection is used to decrease the risk ofClostridium difficileinfection (C. difficileor CDI; a type of bacteria that can cause severe or life-threatening diarrhea) from coming back in people who are at high risk forC. difficileinfection and who are already taking an antibiotic drug to treatClostridium difficile. Bezlotoxumab is in a class of medications called monoclonal antibodies. It works by binding to a C. difficiletoxin to stop its effects on the body.
Bezlotoxumab comes as a solution (liquid) to be injected intravenously (into a vein) over 60 minutes. Bezlotoxumab is administered as a single dose by a doctor or nurse.
Bezlotoxumab injection does not take the place of antibiotic treatment forC. difficileinfection; continue your antibiotic treatment as directed by your doctor.
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Before receiving bezlotoxumab injection,
Bezlotoxumab injection may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
Bezlotoxumab injection may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while receiving this medication.
If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online ( Web Site) or by phone (1-800-332-1088).
In case of overdose, call the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222. Information is also available online at Web Site. If the victim has collapsed, had a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be awakened, immediately call emergency services at 911.
Keep all appointments with your doctor.
Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about bezlotoxumab injection.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.