What are CAPS?
Cryopyrin-Associated Periodic Syndromes (CAPS) are a group of rare genetic diseases that includes Familial Cold Autoinflammatory Syndrome (FCAS) and Muckle-Wells Syndrome (MWS). CAPS are rare and chronic diseases that are part of a larger group of diseases known as Periodic Fever Syndromes.
What causes CAPS?
CAPS are inherited conditions that are generally passed on from other family members. CAPS are caused by an inherited mutated gene, called the NLRP3 gene (or the CIAS1 gene). In some cases, however, the genetic mutation responsible for CAPS may occur spontaneously at birth.
How long do CAPS last?
There is no cure for CAPS, but with continuous treatment, patients with CAPS may experience symptom improvement.
What are Periodic Fever Syndromes?
Periodic Fever Syndromes are a group of rare, autoinflammatory diseases that are characterized by symptoms including recurrent fevers, rash, pain, and joint inflammation. Periodic Fevers are typically inherited from family members, but can occur on their own. Both children and adults can be affected by Periodic Fevers, though symptoms usually begin during childhood.
Are CAPS contagious?
CAPS are not contagious. They're a group of inherited diseases that can be passed down from family members, though they can also occur on their own. Certain factors are thought to trigger CAPS flares, including exposure to cold, drops in temperature, stress, and exercise.
What is ILARIS?
ILARIS® is a prescription medication that is FDA approved to treat CAPS, including FCAS and MWS, in patients 4 years and older. ILARIS works by attaching to and blocking interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), a type of cytokine responsible for inflammation. For CAPS, ILARIS is given every 8 weeks as a subcutaneous injection right below the skin.
How can ILARIS help with CAPS?
ILARIS specifically addresses inflammation caused by IL-1β that can lead to CAPS symptoms such as rash, joint and/or muscle pain, and eye irritation. ILARIS can also decrease the risk of flares, or the worsening of CAPS symptoms. ILARIS is given by a doctor or nurse as an injection right below the skin. Talk to a doctor to find out if ILARIS may be a treatment option for you or your child.
How fast does ILARIS work?
Seven days after just 1 dose of ILARIS, the majority of patients (71%) experienced a complete response* to treatment. 97 percent of patients experienced improvement in their CAPS symptoms within the first treatment period (8 weeks).
*In a clinical study of 35 patients, 97% had a complete response within the first treatment period (8 weeks). The majority of patients (71%) experienced a complete response to treatment in 7 days.
Complete response was measured by laboratory tests and a doctor's evaluation of the patients' skin disease and symptoms being minimal or better, including symptoms such as: rash, fatigue, muscle pain, headache or migraine, sore or red eyes, and joint pain.
Is ILARIS given intravenously?
ILARIS is not given as an intravenous infusion (infused inside a vein over a period of time). Instead, it is given as a subcutaneous (right under the skin) injection, or shot, by a doctor or nurse. A home health nurse can be sent to your home to administer ILARIS. If you are eligible, this service and other ILARIS support options may be available for you or your child.
How often is ILARIS given?
For CAPS, ILARIS is given as a subcutaneous injection (right under the skin) by a doctor or nurse once every 8 weeks—just 6 or 7 treatments in a year.
Is support available to help us pay for ILARIS?
We're committed to helping you get access to ILARIS. Our ILARIS Companion representatives are here to help by working with your doctor or your child's doctor, and:
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Contacting your insurance company
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Verifying insurance benefits and investigation of coverage
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Addressing coverage issues
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Navigating prior authorization and appeals, if needed
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Providing co-pay* assistance for eligible patients with commercial insurance
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Providing information about alternative assistance options for uninsured patients
*Limitations apply. Please contact ILARIS Companion at 866-972-8315 for more information.
Whom should I speak to if I have more questions about ILARIS?
Talk to a rheumatologist or other healthcare professional. An active CAPS treatment team can consist of many important members. If you or your child has CAPS, make sure to find a doctor that works for you.
11/23 307078