Sarilumab (brand name Kevzara) is a powerful immunomodulator medicine given as an injection, currently being investigated for treating uveitis.
| Drug class | Biologic (Anti-IL6) |
|---|---|
| Type | Single |
| Forms | Subcutaneous Injection |
| Common strength | 200 mg |
| Common Indian brands | Kevzara |
| Prescription status | Prescription |
What Sarilumab is used for
Sarilumab is an immunomodulator medicine that belongs to a group called biologics. It is currently being investigated for its role in treating certain eye conditions, specifically:
- Uveitis
Uveitis is an inflammation of the uvea, which is the middle layer of your eye. This layer includes the iris (the coloured part of your eye), the ciliary body (which helps you focus), and the choroid (which provides blood to the retina). When the uvea becomes inflamed, it can cause redness, pain, light sensitivity, blurred vision, and floaters. If left untreated, uveitis can lead to serious complications like glaucoma, cataracts, or even vision loss. Managing uveitis often involves reducing inflammation and preventing damage to the eye. Sarilumab is being explored as a treatment option for this complex condition.
How it works
Sarilumab is a biologic medicine that works by targeting a specific part of your immune system. It is known as an ‘Anti-IL6’ medicine. IL-6, or Interleukin-6, is a protein in your body that plays a key role in inflammation and immune responses. In conditions like uveitis, IL-6 can contribute to the inflammation that damages eye tissues.
Sarilumab works by blocking the IL-6 receptor. Think of it like a lock and key: IL-6 is the key, and the IL-6 receptor is the lock on your cells. When IL-6 binds to its receptor, it triggers inflammation. Sarilumab essentially blocks this lock, preventing IL-6 from binding and activating the inflammatory process. By doing so, it helps to reduce the inflammation in the eye that is characteristic of uveitis.
Because it modulates the immune system, Sarilumab is considered a powerful medicine. Its action of blocking the IL-6 receptor helps to calm down the overactive immune response that contributes to the inflammation in uveitis.
How it’s used
Sarilumab is administered as a subcutaneous injection. This means the medicine is injected just under your skin, similar to how insulin is given. The typical dosing for Sarilumab is every 2 weeks.
It is very important to remember that this medicine will be administered by a healthcare professional or under their strict guidance. You will receive clear instructions on how to prepare and administer the injection, or it will be given to you at the hospital or clinic. Do not attempt to self-administer this medicine without proper training and supervision from your doctor or nurse.
Your doctor will determine the exact schedule and provide you with all the necessary information regarding your treatment plan. Always follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and do not miss any doses. If you have any questions or concerns about how to use Sarilumab, please speak to your ophthalmologist or the nursing staff at Pristine Eye Hospitals.
Always follow your ophthalmologist’s exact instructions.
Brands available in India
- Kevzara
Brand availability and pricing vary; confirm with your pharmacist.
Please note
Powerful medicine that suppresses the immune system. Screening for tuberculosis and hepatitis is usually required before starting, and it raises the risk of infection. Used only under specialist supervision with regular monitoring. Not currently approved or routinely available in India — included for reference; ask your ophthalmologist about approved alternatives.
Precautions & side effects
Sarilumab is a powerful medicine that suppresses the immune system, and it comes with important precautions that you must be aware of. It is crucial to discuss all your medical history and any concerns with your ophthalmologist before starting this treatment.
- Investigational for Uveitis: Please note that Sarilumab’s role in treating uveitis is still investigational. This means it is not yet a routinely approved or widely available treatment for uveitis in India. Your doctor will discuss if it is an appropriate option for you based on your specific condition and the latest medical understanding.
- Immune System Suppression: This medicine works by suppressing your immune system. While this helps reduce inflammation, it also raises your risk of developing infections. You must be vigilant for any signs of infection, such as fever, chills, persistent cough, unusual fatigue, or skin rashes, and report them to your doctor immediately.
- Screening for Infections: Before you can start Sarilumab, your doctor will usually require screening tests for certain infections, including tuberculosis (TB) and hepatitis. This is to ensure that you do not have these infections, which could worsen with immune suppression.
- Specialist Supervision and Monitoring: Due to its powerful nature and potential side effects, Sarilumab must only be used under the supervision of a specialist doctor. Regular monitoring will be required throughout your treatment to check for any adverse effects and to assess the effectiveness of the medicine.
- Availability in India: Currently, Sarilumab is not routinely approved or widely available in India for ophthalmic use. It is included here for reference. Your ophthalmologist will be able to discuss approved and available alternatives that are suitable for your condition.
- Prescription Only: Sarilumab is a prescription medicine. You cannot obtain it without a valid prescription from a qualified doctor.
Always communicate openly with your doctor about any new symptoms, existing medical conditions, or other medicines you are taking. This will help ensure your safety and the effectiveness of your treatment.
Understanding Uveitis and Its Treatment
Uveitis is an inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of your eye. This vital layer contains many blood vessels and is crucial for nourishing your eye. When it becomes inflamed, it can cause a range of symptoms including eye pain, redness, sensitivity to light (photophobia), blurred vision, and the appearance of ‘floaters’ (small spots or lines that seem to drift across your vision). Uveitis can affect one or both eyes and can be acute (sudden and short-lived) or chronic (long-lasting or recurring). If left untreated, uveitis can lead to serious complications such as glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye), cataracts (clouding of the eye’s natural lens), or even permanent vision loss. The causes of uveitis can vary widely, including autoimmune diseases, infections, or injuries to the eye. Sometimes, the cause remains unknown. The goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, prevent further damage to the eye, and preserve your vision. This often involves a combination of medicines, and in some cases, powerful immunomodulators like Sarilumab are explored when other treatments are not sufficient.
Living with uveitis can be challenging, but with proper diagnosis and consistent treatment, many people can manage their condition effectively. Regular follow-up appointments with your ophthalmologist are crucial to monitor your eye health and adjust your treatment plan as needed. Do not hesitate to discuss any new or worsening symptoms with your doctor immediately.
General Advice for Using Injections and Eye Care
While Sarilumab is an injection and not an eye drop or ointment, maintaining good hygiene and following medical instructions are equally important. If you are receiving injections, ensure that the area of injection is clean as instructed by your healthcare provider. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling any medical supplies. If you are administering the injection yourself (after proper training), always use a new, sterile needle and syringe for each dose and dispose of them safely in a sharps container. Never reuse needles or share your medicine with anyone else.
Beyond the specific medicine, general eye care is always important. Avoid rubbing your eyes, especially if they are inflamed or irritated, as this can worsen the condition or introduce infection. Protect your eyes from bright sunlight by wearing sunglasses, especially if you experience light sensitivity. If you wear contact lenses, your doctor might advise you to avoid them during periods of active inflammation or while on certain treatments. Always follow your ophthalmologist’s specific advice regarding contact lens use.
When to Seek Medical Help
It is vital to know when to contact your doctor or seek urgent medical attention, especially when you are on a powerful medicine like Sarilumab. As Sarilumab suppresses your immune system, you are at a higher risk of infections. Therefore, you should immediately contact your doctor if you experience any signs of infection, such as:
- Fever (a temperature of 100.4°F / 38°C or higher)
- Chills or shivering
- Persistent cough or sore throat
- Unusual fatigue or weakness
- Any new or worsening skin rash, redness, or swelling
- Painful urination or other signs of a urinary tract infection
- Any new or worsening eye pain, redness, blurred vision, or light sensitivity
Also, if you experience any severe allergic reactions, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or a widespread rash, seek emergency medical help immediately. Always keep your doctor’s contact information handy and do not hesitate to reach out if you have any concerns about your treatment or your eye health. Regular follow-up appointments are essential for monitoring your condition and the effects of the medicine. Missing appointments can delay necessary adjustments to your treatment plan and potentially impact your vision.
Frequently asked questions
What is Sarilumab used for?
Sarilumab is an immunomodulator medicine that is currently being investigated for its role in treating uveitis, which is an inflammation of the middle layer of the eye.
How does Sarilumab work?
Sarilumab works by blocking the IL-6 receptor. IL-6 is a protein that causes inflammation in the body. By blocking its receptor, Sarilumab helps to reduce the inflammation associated with conditions like uveitis.
What are the common brands of Sarilumab available in India?
The brand name for Sarilumab is Kevzara. However, please note that Sarilumab is not currently approved or routinely available in India for ophthalmic use. Your ophthalmologist can discuss approved alternatives with you.
How is Sarilumab administered?
Sarilumab is given as a subcutaneous injection, which means it is injected just under the skin. The typical dosing schedule is every 2 weeks.
Do I need a prescription for Sarilumab?
Yes, Sarilumab is a powerful prescription-only medicine. It must be prescribed by a qualified doctor and used under specialist supervision.
What are the key precautions I should be aware of when using Sarilumab?
Sarilumab is a powerful medicine that suppresses the immune system, increasing the risk of infection. Screening for tuberculosis and hepatitis is usually required before starting. It must be used only under specialist supervision with regular monitoring. It is also important to remember its investigational status for uveitis and its limited availability in India.
References
- A Look at Emerging Treatments for Uveitis – Review of Ophthalmology
- Sarilumab Injection: MedlinePlus Drug Information
- Eye health information – American Academy of Ophthalmology
- Learn about eye health – National Eye Institute (NIH)
- Blindness and vision impairment – World Health Organization
Medically reviewed by Dr. C Jagadesh Reddy, Chief Surgeon: Cornea, Cataract and Refractive Surgery — last reviewed 2026-07-28.
This page is for general education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never self-medicate or reuse an old prescription. Always consult a qualified ophthalmologist before starting, changing or stopping any eye medicine.