From the FDA Drug Label
Unless a clear alternative etiology is identified, glatiramer acetate injection must be permanently discontinued [see Contraindications (4) and Warnings and Precautions (5. 1)]. If an anaphylactic reaction occurs, treatment with glatiramer acetate injection must be immediately discontinued Glatiramer acetate injection is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to glatiramer acetate or mannitol. If signs or symptoms of hepatic dysfunction occur, consider discontinuing glatiramer acetate (5.6)
Discontinuation Criteria:
- Anaphylactic reactions
- Known hypersensitivity to glatiramer acetate or mannitol
- Signs or symptoms of hepatic dysfunction 1 1
From the Research
Copaxone (glatiramer acetate) should be discontinued if a patient experiences persistent severe injection site reactions, develops an immediate post-injection reaction, shows signs of lipoatrophy or skin necrosis at injection sites, develops hypersensitivity to the medication, or experiences significant disease progression despite treatment, as supported by recent studies 2, 3. When considering discontinuation of glatiramer acetate, several factors should be taken into account, including the patient's response to treatment, presence of adverse effects, and potential for disease progression.
- Key considerations for discontinuation include:
- Persistent severe injection site reactions
- Immediate post-injection reactions that do not improve with time
- Signs of lipoatrophy or skin necrosis at injection sites
- Development of hypersensitivity to the medication
- Significant disease progression despite treatment Additionally, discontinuation should be considered when transitioning to another disease-modifying therapy for multiple sclerosis, during pregnancy planning, or if the patient develops intolerable side effects that significantly impact quality of life 3, 4. It is essential to consult with a neurologist before making any decisions regarding the discontinuation of glatiramer acetate to ensure proper management of the underlying condition and to plan appropriate alternative treatments.
- The decision to discontinue glatiramer acetate should be based on the most recent and highest-quality evidence available, taking into account the patient's individual needs and circumstances 2, 3. Abrupt discontinuation of glatiramer acetate is generally considered safe, as it does not cause rebound disease activity, unlike some other MS medications 5.
- However, it is crucial to carefully monitor the patient's condition after discontinuation and adjust the treatment plan as needed to minimize the risk of disease progression or adverse effects 6.