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Velaglucerase Alfa Injection

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Nov.20.2024

Velaglucerase Alfa Injection

What is this medication?

VELAGLUCERASE ALFA (VEL a GLOO ser ase AL fa) treats Gaucher disease. It works by replacing an enzyme normally made by the body, which reduces the buildup fatty substances (lipids) in the spleen, liver, bones, and other tissues. This decreases symptoms.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

How should I use this medication?

This medication is infused into a vein. It is given by your care team in a hospital or clinic setting.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While it may be prescribed for children as young as 4 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once. NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

Back pain
Dizziness
Fatigue
Headache
Joint pain
Nausea
Stomach pain

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

This medication is given in a hospital or clinic. It will not be stored at home.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

An unusual or allergic reaction to velaglucerase, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
Pregnant or are trying to get pregnant
Breastfeeding

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What if I miss a dose?

Keep appointments for follow-up doses. It is important not to miss your dose. Call your care team if you are unable to keep an appointment.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.

This medication can cause serious allergic reactions. To reduce the risk, your care team may give you other medications to take before receiving this one. Follow the directions from your care team.