Overview
Rhapsido is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU), a type of hives, in adults who continue to experience symptoms despite taking H1 antihistamines. Rhapsido is also known by its drug name, remibrutinib.

Rhapsido is a Bruton’s tyrosine kinase inhibitor. Scientists believe it works by blocking Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK), a protein involved in signaling pathways that activate immune cells responsible for inflammation and allergic reactions. By inhibiting BTK, Rhapsido may reduce the immune response that leads to the development of hives.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Rhapsido is taken as a tablet by mouth twice daily, with or without food. The tablets should be swallowed whole and not split, crushed, or chewed. Rhapsido should be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Side effects
Common side effects of Rhapsido include nasopharyngitis (common cold), bleeding, headache, nausea, and abdominal pain.

Rare but serious side effects may include severe bleeding, especially when taken with blood-thinning medications; increased risk of infection from live vaccines; and potential for serious drug interactions, particularly with medications that affect liver enzymes or transport proteins. 

For more information about this treatment, visit:

Rhapsido (Remibrutinib) Tablets, for Oral Use — Novartis Pharmaceuticals