Wainua (eplontersen) is a prescription drug that’s used to treat nerve damage caused by amyloidosis. The drug comes as a liquid solution for injection under your skin. It’s usually given once per month.
Wainua is used in adults to treat polyneuropathy (multiple nerve damage) caused by a rare inherited condition called transthyretin-mediated amyloidosis. This condition causes an unusual buildup of proteins in the tissues and organs of your body.
The active ingredient in Wainua is eplontersen. Wainua belongs to a group of drugs called RNA interference agents or gene silencers.
This article describes the dosage of Wainua, as well as its strength and how to give it. To learn more about Wainua, see this in-depth article.
This section describes the usual dosage of Wainua. Keep reading to learn more.
What is Wainua’s form?
Wainua is available as a liquid solution in an auto-injector that’s given as an injection under your skin.
What strength does Wainua come in?
Wainua comes in one strength of 45 milligrams (mg) per 0.8 milliliters (mL) of solution.
What are the usual dosages of Wainua?
The information below describes the dosage that’s commonly used or recommended. But be sure to give the dosage your doctor prescribes for you. They’ll determine the best dosage to fit your needs. In some cases, doctors may adjust your dosage from those shown below.
Dosage for polyneuropathy of hereditary transthyretin-mediated amyloidosis
Wainua is administered in adults to treat polyneuropathy caused by hereditary transthyretin-mediated amyloidosis. The typical dosage is 45 mg given as an injection under the skin once per month. Be sure to administer your dose of Wainua on the same day each month.
If you miss giving your dose of Wainua, give it as soon as you remember and then give the next dose 1 month after your missed dose. Then continue giving doses on the same day and time each month.
Your doctor may ask you to take a vitamin A supplement during treatment with Wainua. This is because the drug can lower your vitamin A levels.
If you have questions about your dosage of Wainua or how to administer your dose, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
How it’s given
You can administer Wainua injections under the skin of your abdomen or upper thigh. A healthcare professional or a caregiver may also give you doses of Wainua in the back of your upper arm.
You can also view this video from the manufacturer for detailed instructions on how to give Wainua.
Is Wainua used long term?
Yes, Wainua is usually used as a long-term treatment. If you and your doctor determine that it’s safe and effective for your condition, you’ll likely use it long term.
Do not use more Wainua than your doctor prescribes, as this can lead to harmful effects.
What to do in case you use too much Wainua
Call your doctor right away if you think you’ve used too much Wainua. You can also call 800-222-1222 to reach America’s Poison Centers or use its online resource. But if you have severe symptoms, immediately call 911 (or your local emergency number) or go to the nearest emergency room.
Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.