Complement 5a receptor (C5aR) antagonist
AVACOPAN (brand name TAVNEOS) is an oral capsule used as an extra treatment for adults with severe active ANCA-associated vasculitis (specifically GPA and MPA) alongside standard therapies like glucocorticoids. It works by blocking a specific receptor (C5aR) to stop certain immune cells from causing inflammation.
How it worksAVACOPAN works by blocking the interaction between the C5a receptor and the C5a protein, which stops immune cells (neutrophils) from becoming active and moving to sites of inflammation.
Brand names:TAVNEOS
How to take
The usual dose is 30 mg (three 10 mg capsules) taken twice daily with food.
Do not crush, chew, or open the capsules. If you miss a dose, wait until your next scheduled time and do not double up.
Missed dose: If you miss a dose, wait until your next scheduled time to take it. Do not double the dose.
Key warnings
- ·Liver health: AVACOPAN can cause liver problems. Doctors will check your liver function before starting and regularly during treatment.
- ·Allergic reactions: Some people may experience severe swelling (angioedema).
- ·Hepatitis B: The drug may cause a reactivation of Hepatitis B in some patients.
- ·Infections: Avoid using AVACOPAN if you have an active, serious infection.
Do not use if
- ·People with a serious hypersensitivity (allergic) reaction to avacopan or any of its ingredients.
Side effects
Common
Serious
- ·Liver injury (hepatotoxicity)
- ·Severe allergic reactions (angioedema)
- ·Hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation
- ·Serious infections
Seek help if
- ·Signs of swelling (angioedema)
- ·Yellowing of eyes or skin (jaundice)
- ·Severe abdominal pain
- ·Symptoms of infection
Interactions
- ·Avoid using AVACOPAN with strong or moderate CYP3A4 enzyme inducers like rifampin.
- ·If taking strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (like itraconazole), the dose of AVACOPAN should be reduced to 30 mg once daily.
- ·When taking AVACOPAN, limit simvastatin doses to 10 mg daily (or 20 mg for those previously tolerant of higher doses) because AVACOPAN can increase simvastatin levels.
- ·Known interactions include ZOCOR, ONMEL, and RIFADIN.
Special populations
PregnancyThere are no well-controlled studies on AVACOPAN in pregnant women. In animal studies, high doses caused an increase in abortions in rabbits.
PediatricThe safety and effectiveness of TAVNEOS in children have not been established.
GeriatricSafety and effectiveness in elderly patients were similar to those seen in younger patients in clinical trials.
Talk to your doctor
Monitor
- ·Liver function (ALT, AST, alkaline phosphatase, total bilirubin)
- ·Signs of swelling or allergic reaction (angioedema)
- ·Symptoms of Hepatitis B reactivation
Questions to ask
- ·Should I have my liver checked regularly while taking TAVNEOS?
- ·Do I need to be screened for Hepatitis B before starting?
- ·How will TAVNEOS interact with my current medications?
- ·Can I take this if I have a history of liver issues?
Pharmacokinetics
Practical
StorageStore at room temperature between 68°F and 77°F. Do not use if the seal is broken.
Ingredients
Allergens
Inactive
Educational summary derived from FDA labeling, AI-assisted. Not medical advice — consult a healthcare professional. Updated 2026-04-25.
