Tysabri Dosages for Multiple Sclerosis and Crohn’s Disease: Your GoodRx Guide

Tysabri (natalizumab) is a biologic medication that’s given as an intravenous (IV) infusion. It’s approved to treat relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). If you have Crohn’s disease, it may be recommended if you don’t respond to or can’t take other treatments.

In this review, we’ll discuss the typical Tysabri dosages and what to expect when starting treatment. Keep in mind that these recommendations are from the manufacturer. If you have any questions about your Tysabri dosage, speak with your care team.

What to expect when starting Tysabri infusions

Before starting Tysabri, you and your healthcare provider need to enroll in the TOUCH prescribing program. The program is intended to make sure you’re informed of the potential risks of Tysabri, which include a serious brain infection called progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML).

The TOUCH prescribing program assures that you get treated at an authorized infusion center. Your treatment will also be completed with an approved healthcare provider, nurses, and pharmacy. The program also has resources to verify your insurance coverage and connect you with possible financial assistance.

When you arrive for your infusion, it’s important to let the nursing staff know about any new or ongoing health conditions, including infections. You should also share a list of the current medications and supplements you’re taking.

What’s the typical Tysabri dosage?

Tysabri is given as an IV infusion at an authorized infusion center. It’s usually given as a 300 mg dose over 1 hour every 4 weeks. This is the standard dosage for both MS and Crohn’s disease.

Expect your healthcare provider or nurse to monitor you during your Tysabri infusion. And for the first 12 infusions (sometimes more), they’ll continue monitoring you for 1 hour after. This is to make sure you don’t have a serious reaction to the medication, such as anaphylaxis.

Reactions to Tysabri are rare, but still possible. They usually happen within 2 hours of starting a Tysabri infusion. Symptoms of anaphylaxis may include:

• Hives (urticaria)

• Dizziness

• Low blood pressure (hypotension)

• Shortness of breath (dyspnea)

• Chest pain

If you develop a reaction to Tysabri, your healthcare team will be ready and able to provide medical attention.

What happens if you miss your Tysabri infusion?

It’s important to receive Tysabri as directed by your healthcare provider. If you miss your infusion appointment or need to reschedule, be sure to contact them right away. It’s best to reschedule your appointment as soon as possible.

Skipping your Tysabri infusion can increase your risk of developing a reaction during your next appointment. It can also increase the likelihood that Tysabri may not work as well for you.

How to save on Tysabri

There are ways to save on Tysabri, which is available as a brand-name medication. As part of enrolling in the TOUCH prescribing program, a support coordinator will explain coverage options, costs, and financial assistance opportunities before you start treatment.

If you’re eligible, you could access Tysabri at no cost by using a manufacturer copay card. Patient assistance programs may also be available.

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Written by:

Brian Leonard, PharmD, BCACP, BCGP

Brian Leonard earned his doctorate in pharmacy from the University of Florida College of Pharmacy and is board certified in Ambulatory Care and Geriatric Pharmacy.

Edited by:

Alyssa Billingsley, PharmD

Alyssa Billingsley, PharmD, is the director of pharmacy content for GoodRx. She has over a decade of experience as a pharmacist and has worked in clinical, academic, and administrative roles.

Reviewed by:

Christina Aungst, PharmD

Christina Aungst, PharmD, is a pharmacy editor for GoodRx. She began writing for GoodRx Health in 2019, transitioning from freelance writer to editor in 2021.

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