eculizumab

(ek-yoo-LY-zoo-mab) A monoclonal antibody used to prevent red blood cells from being destroyed in patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH), a red blood cell disorder. Monoclonal antibodies are made in the laboratory and can locate and bind to substances in the body. Eculizumab blocks a protein in the blood that causes the breakdown of red blood cells. Also called Soliris.