Nurses Compass
Drug Guide
Avacopan
Classification
Therapeutic: Antirheumatic agent (specifically for vasculitis),
Pharmacological: Complement 5a receptor antagonist
FDA Approved Indications
- ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV)
Mechanism of Action
Avacopan selectively inhibits the C5a receptor, blocking C5a-mediated activation of neutrophils and reducing inflammation in vasculitis.
Dosage and Administration
Adult: 30 mg twice daily after a 2-week period of 30 mg once daily during the induction phase, adjusted based on response and tolerability.
Pediatric: Not currently approved or established
Geriatric: No specific dosage adjustment provided, use cautiously in elderly
Renal Impairment: Adjustments not specified; use with caution
Hepatic Impairment: No specific recommendations provided.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Rapid, with peak concentrations in 1-2 hours
Distribution: Widely distributed, plasma protein binding approximately 69%
Metabolism: Primarily via non-enzymatic hydrolysis; no CYP450 involvement
Excretion: Renally excreted predominantly as inactive metabolites
Half Life: Approximately 22 hours
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to avacopan or excipients
Precautions
- Use in hepatic impairment not studied; monitor for signs of infection, as immune modulation may increase infection risk.
Adverse Reactions - Common
- Nausea (Less common)
- Headache (Less common)
- Upper respiratory tract infections (Common)
Adverse Reactions - Serious
- Infections (Uncommon but serious)
- Infusion-related reactions (Rare)
Drug-Drug Interactions
- No significant interactions identified yet
Drug-Food Interactions
- No specific food interactions reported
Drug-Herb Interactions
- No data available
Nursing Implications
Assessment: Monitor for signs of infection, hepatic function, and blood counts
Diagnoses:
- Risk for infection
- Impaired liver function
Implementation: Administer as prescribed, monitor patient response, manage side effects
Evaluation: Assess symptom control and adverse effects during treatment
Patient/Family Teaching
- Report any signs of infection (fever, chills, sore throat) immediately.
- Take medication exactly as prescribed.
- Maintain regular follow-up appointments for laboratory monitoring.
Special Considerations
Black Box Warnings:
- None currently
Genetic Factors: Not specified
Lab Test Interference: Not reported
Overdose Management
Signs/Symptoms: Potential increased risk of infections or adverse effects
Treatment: Supportive care, symptomatic treatment, and consultation with poison control or a medical toxicologist.
Storage and Handling
Storage: Store at room temperature, away from moisture and light
Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions for specified period