What are the side effects of immunotherapy in generalized myasthenia gravis?
Immunosuppressant medications can help manage MG symptoms but come with potential risks. The main side effects include:
• Increased risk of infections due to decreased immune system activity
• Potential development of certain cancers due to Show Full Answer
What are the side effects of immunotherapy in generalized myasthenia gravis?
Immunosuppressant medications can help manage MG symptoms but come with potential risks. The main side effects include:
• Increased risk of infections due to decreased immune system activity
• Potential development of certain cancers due to reduced immune surveillance
• Difficulty fighting new infections
• Respiratory complications in severe cases
It's especially important to discuss vaccination schedules with your healthcare team if you're on immunosuppressive therapy. Common immunosuppressant medications used for MG include:
• Azathioprine
• Cyclophosphamide
• Cyclosporine
• Eculizumab (Soliris)
• Mycophenolate mofetil
• Prednisone
• Rituximab
• Tacrolimus
Note that intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), used in severe cases, has not been found to significantly increase infection risks compared to other immunotherapies.
October 6, 2025