Bkemv (Eculizumab-Aeeb) for Generalized Myasthenia Gravis

Bkemv (eculizumab-aeeb) is a prescription medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat generalized myasthenia gravis in adults.

How Bkemv Works and How It’s Taken

Bkemv is a type of monoclonal antibody that blocks complement protein C5, which is part of the immune system. This helps stop the body from forming a terminal complement complex.

The exact way Bkemv works to treat generalized myasthenia gravis is not fully known. It’s thought to reduce harmful complement activity at the places where nerves connect to muscles.

Doctors prescribe Bkemv for adults with generalized myasthenia gravis who are anti-acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibody positive.

Bkemv is given as an intravenous (IV) infusion, which means it is put into a vein through an IV line. It’s given by a healthcare provider.

Typical Dosing for Myasthenia Gravis

The recommended starting dose of Bkemv for generalized myasthenia gravis is 900 milligrams once a week for the first four weeks. A dose of 1,200 milligrams is then given one week later at week 5. After that, the recommended maintenance dose is 1,200 milligrams every two weeks.

If you are receiving intravenous immune globulin (IVIG) on an ongoing schedule, your doctor may change the timing of your doses and may give an extra dose of Bkemv based on your treatment schedule.

This information is based on prescribing information, but your healthcare provider may tailor your treatment plan. Always follow their guidance.

Bkemv Side Effects

In clinical studies of Bkemv for generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) in adults who are anti-acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibody positive, the most common side effects occurred in about 7 percent to 15 percent of people. These side effects were:

Musculoskeletal pain (pain in muscles, joints, or bones)
Abdominal pain (stomach or belly pain)
Peripheral edema (swelling, usually in the legs, ankles, or feet)
Fever

Serious Side Effects and Warnings

Bkemv can cause serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. These include:

Serious meningococcal infections (a fast-moving, life-threatening infection that can cause meningitis or blood infection)
Other serious infections (including infections caused by Neisseria species other than meningococcal bacteria, and other bacteria the immune system may have more trouble fighting)
Serious infusion-related reactions (severe allergic or hypersensitivity reactions during or after an infusion, which may cause trouble breathing or heart and blood pressure problems)

Get medical help right away if you think you are having a serious reaction.

How To Save on Bkemv

Amgen, the manufacturer of Bkemv, offers the Amgen SupportPlus Co-Pay Card. Eligible people with commercial insurance may pay as little as $0 out of pocket for each dose or cycle.

The Amgen SupportPlus Co-Pay Card also offers support that covers eligible out-of-pocket medication costs and in-office administration costs for Bkemv (such as copay, deductible, or coinsurance), up to program limits. To learn more, visit Amgen SupportPlus financial support or call 866-264-2778.

What To Know Before Taking Bkemv

Before starting Bkemv, your doctor will check that you have generalized myasthenia gravis and that you are anti-acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibody positive.

Before your first dose, you should get meningococcal vaccines for serogroups A, C, W, Y, and B at least two weeks ahead of time. If Bkemv must be started right away and you are not up to date on these vaccines, your doctor should give you antibiotics and make sure you get vaccinated as soon as possible.

Tell your doctor if you have any allergies to eculizumab-aeeb or any ingredients in Bkemv.

Tell your doctor about all medicines you take, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Also let your doctor know if you have had recent infections.

Do not take Bkemv if you have an unresolved serious Neisseria meningitidis (meningococcal) infection.

Bkemv is also FDA approved to treat paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) and atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS).

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding while taking Bkemv, talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits.

Community FAQs

These answers are fact-checked by our editorial staff.

How effective is Bkemv?
In clinical studies, eculizumab, the reference product for Bkemv, was shown to improve symptoms of generalized myasthenia gravis in clinical studies. In a 26-week study, patients taking Bkemv had greater improvement in daily activity scores and muscle strength scores compared to those taking placebo (an inactive treatment). Many patients showed meaningful improvement, and responses were often seen within about 12 weeks.

How often is Bkemv taken for generalized myasthenia gravis?
Bkemv is given as an intravenous infusion, once a week for the first four weeks. Then a higher dose at week 5, then once every two weeks after that.

What infection warning should people with generalized myasthenia gravis know about before starting Bkemv?
Bkemv increases the risk of serious and life-threatening meningococcal infections (caused by Neisseria meningitidis). People must be vaccinated at least two weeks before starting treatment when possible, and they should be monitored for signs of infection because it can become severe very quickly.