Before you start treatment with VELSIPITY, your doctor will request a few screening tests.
Check out this video to learn more:
Audio:
[VELSIPITY music track plays in the background]
Patient:
So, can you tell me more about what I need to do before starting VELSIPITY?
Doctor:
Yes! There are some tests and other information we need to review. These tests are important to help determine if VELSIPITY is right for you and so that we can keep an eye on certain aspects of your health throughout treatment.
Patient:
I see. So, I need some blood work done, right?
Doctor:
Yes! We need a complete blood count and liver test to make sure everything looks good. The liver function tests will show us how well your liver is working, and we'll check your white blood cells, since they're important if you have to fight off an infection.
Patient:
I can do that. Can you tell me about the ECG?
Doctor:
Absolutely. A standard electrocardiogram will confirm you don’t have any preexisting heart conditions. I'm also going to review your immunizations. If there are any vaccinations you might need, we'll make sure you're up-to-date before starting treatment.
Patient:
Well, that's reasonable. Is there anything else you need to know?
Doctor:
Yes, I need a list of your current medications as well as any vitamins and herbal supplements you are currently taking.
Patient:
Noted. What about the other tests?
Doctor:
Well, after you've completed a blood test, the ECG, and we've reviewed your current medications and vaccinations, you can get started on VELSIPITY if everything looks good. However, there are a few more tests that are also required around the start of treatment.
Patient:
Sounds good. Can you tell me a bit more about those tests?
Doctor:
So, if you haven't had a recent baseline skin exam and a special type of eye exam, you'll need to complete those either before or shortly after you start VELSIPITY.
Patient:
Great! And why do I need those?
Doctor:
These tests help us monitor your health. There is an increased risk of certain eye conditions when taking medicines like VELSIPITY, so we need you to complete an eye exam that looks at the fundus, including the macula, so we can monitor any changes in your eye health throughout treatment.
Patient:
Alright, an eye exam that looks at the fundus. Got it. And what about the skin?
Doctor:
Ah—similar to the eye exam, the skin exam will help us to establish a baseline to monitor throughout treatment. You should watch for any suspicious skin changes while taking VELSIPITY or other medications like it.
Patient:
Suspicious skin changes?
Doctor:
Yes. Skin cancer has, at times, been seen with other treatments in the same class of drug that VELSIPITY belongs to. It's important for you to let me know if there are any changes to your skin health.
Patient:
I can do that! Is there anything else?
Doctor:
That's everything! Just remember to let me know if there are any changes to your health while on treatment.
Patient:
That's doable. Now, how do I get scheduled for these tests?
Doctor:
Come on, I'll show you.
Now, stay tuned for some important information about VELSIPITY.
Patient:
Stay... tuned?
Text on Screen:
Stay tuned for important information about VELSIPITY.
Super/Text on
Screen:
Screen:
Talk to your doctor about starting VELSIPITY. Visit www.velsipity.com and discover support for eligible patients getting started on treatment.
Before starting VELSIPITY
Blood Work
Complete blood count (CBC), including lymphocyte count and liver function tests.
Before starting VELSIPITY
ECG
An initial ECG (electrocardiogram) to rule out any pre-existing heart conditions you might not know about.
It is also important to:
- Review vaccination records to ensure immunizations are up to date with current guidelines.
- Review list of current or prior medication, vitamins, and herbal supplements to discuss with your doctor prior to starting treatment.
Download a printable checklist to help you
get started on VELSIPITY
Find out if VELSIPITY is appropriate for you
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