Kevzara (sarilumab) is a prescription drug used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune conditions. The drug comes as an injection. It’s usually given once every 2 weeks.

Kevzara is used alone or with other medications to treat:

The active ingredient in Kevzara is sarilumab.

Kevzara belongs to a group of drugs called monoclonal antibodies. These are molecules produced in a lab that act like natural antibodies to help your immune system attack harmful cells.

This article describes the dosages of Kevzara, as well as its strengths and how to use it. And for a detailed overview of this drug, you can check out this in-depth Kevzara article.

Kevzara is given as an injection under your skin. Your doctor will show you how to give yourself the injection.

What is Kevzara’s form?

Kevzara comes as a liquid solution in a prefilled pen or syringe.

What strengths does Kevzara come in?

Kevzara is available in two strengths:

  • 150 milligrams (mg) in 1.14 milliliters (mL)
  • 200 mg in 1.14 mL

What are the typical dosages of Kevzara?

Your doctor will likely start you on a low dosage and adjust it over time to reach the right amount for you. They’ll ultimately prescribe the smallest dosage that provides the desired effect.

The information below describes dosages that are commonly used or recommended. In some cases, doctors may adjust your dosage from those shown below. Be sure to inject the dosage your doctor prescribes. They’ll determine the best dosage to fit your needs.

Dosage for rheumatoid arthritis

The typical Kevzara dosage for adults with RA is 200 mg once every 2 weeks. Your doctor will then adjust your dosage if your blood tests indicate it needs to be changed.

You’ll typically inject the contents of a prefilled pen or syringe with Kevzara 200 mg in 1.14 mL once every 2 weeks.

Dosage for polymyalgia rheumatica

For adults with polymyalgia rheumatica, the typical dosage of Kevzara is 200 mg once every 2 weeks. Your doctor will also prescribe a corticosteroid that you’ll take when you begin treatment.

Then, your doctor will adjust your dosage if your blood tests indicate it needs to be changed.

You’ll typically inject the contents of a prefilled pen or syringe with Kevzara 200 mg in 1.14 mL once every 2 weeks.

Dosage for polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis

The typical dosage of Kevzara for adults with polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis is 200 mg once every 2 weeks. Then, they’ll adjust your dosage if your blood tests indicate it needs to be changed.

You’ll typically inject the contents of a prefilled pen or syringe with Kevzara 200 mg in 1.14 mL once every 2 weeks.

What’s the dosage of Kevzara for children?

Kevzara is used to help treat polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis in children who weigh 63 kilograms (kg) or more. One kg equals about 2.2 pounds (lb).

The dosage used in children is the same as the dosage for adults. To learn more, see the “What are the typical dosages of Kevzara?” section.

Note: Kevzara syringe should always be used to inject a child’s dose. You should not use Kevzara pen if administering a child’s dose.

For more information about Kevzara’s dosage for children, talk with your child’s doctor or a pharmacist.

Is Kevzara used long term?

Yes, Kevzara is typically used as a long-term treatment. If you and your doctor determine that Kevzara is safe and effective for you, you’ll likely use it long term.

Dosage adjustments

Your doctor may adjust your Kevzara dosage depending on certain factors.

You’ll typically start with a dose of 200 mg. Your doctor may permanently or temporarily decrease your dose to 150 mg if your blood tests show Kevzara is negatively affecting your immune system.

Your doctor may also stop your Kevzara dose temporarily if you develop an infection.

The dosage of Kevzara your doctor prescribes may depend on several factors. These include:

  • your blood test results, specifically concerning your immune system
  • your body’s reaction to Kevzara
  • other conditions you may have (see “Dosage adjustments” under “What is Kevzara’s dosage?”)

You’ll give yourself a dose of Kevzara by injecting it under your skin after your doctor shows you how to do so safely. Carefully follow the instructions your doctor gives you.

When you inject Kevzara, you’ll use a place on your body where the skin is not bruised or damaged. You can use the abdominal area or upper thigh. You’ll change the injection location each time, so you don’t always inject the same body part.

Your caregiver may also do the injection for you. If another person does the injection, they can also use the upper part of your arm.

For instructions on how to inject Kevzara, see the manufacturer’s website. If you still have questions about how to safely inject Kevzara, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

For information on Kevzara’s expiration, storage, and disposal, see this Kevzara article.

Kevzara prefilled syringe

You’ll take the Kevzara syringe out of the refrigerator and let it sit for 30 minutes. Then you’ll check the syringe to make sure the solution looks clear. Be sure to inject the entire contents of the syringe for your Kevzara dose.

Kevzara syringe can be used in adults and children who weigh 63 kg or more.

Kevzara prefilled pen

You’ll take the Kevzara pen out of the refrigerator and let it sit for 60 minutes. Then you’ll check the pen to make sure the solution looks clear. Be sure to inject the entire contents of the pen for your Kevzara dose.

This form is only approved for use in adults. Do not use Kevzara pen to administer a child’s dose.

Try not to miss a dose of Kevzara. If you do miss a dose, inject it when you remember. But if it’s almost time for your next dose, just inject that one. Don’t inject two doses at once. Let your doctor know if you missed a dose.

If you need help remembering to inject your dose of Kevzara on time, try using a medication reminder. This can include setting an alarm or downloading a reminder app on your phone.

Don’t use more Kevzara than your doctor prescribes. Using more than this can lead to serious side effects.

What to do in case you use too much Kevzara

Call your doctor right away if you think you’ve used too much Kevzara. You can also call 800-222-1222 to reach America’s Poison Centers or use its online resource. If you have severe symptoms, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately 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.