This medication is used to treat a certain inherited
disorder (Fabry disease) that causes buildup of a certain fat substance
(GL-3) in some parts of your body. Worsening of this disorder can lead to
kidney disease, heart attack, or stroke. Agalsidase beta works by replacing
an enzyme that your body lacks, which helps break down the fat substance
(GL-3) in your body. This can help prevent symptoms such as pain
(especially in the hands and feet), dark red spots on the skin, a decreased
ability to sweat, cloudiness of the front part of the eye,
stomach/intestinal problems, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), and hearing
loss.
This medication is given by slow injection into a vein
as directed by your doctor, usually every 2 weeks. The injection is given
by a health care professional. The dosage is based on your medical
condition, weight, and response to treatment.
Infusion reactions may happen during the infusion of
this drug. Your doctor may prescribe other medications (such as
acetaminophen, antihistamine, corticosteroid) before each treatment to help
prevent these side effects. Tell your doctor right away if you have any
symptoms of infusion reactions such as chills, flushing, itching, nausea,
vomiting, dizziness, numbness/tingling, shortness of breath, headache, or
chest/abdominal pain. Your doctor may give you other medications to help
with these side effects or may slow down or stop your treatment for some
time.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit
from it. To help you remember, mark your calendar with a
reminder.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better
or if it gets worse.
See also Warning and How to Use sections.
Pain at the injection site, fever, tiredness, muscle
pain, dizziness, or cold symptoms (such as runny/stuffy nose, cough) may
also occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or
pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed
because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the
risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious
side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side
effects, including:
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before using agalsidase beta, tell your doctor or
pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies.
This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic
reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more
details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana
(cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do
anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic
beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana
(cannabis).
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about
all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription
drugs, and herbal products).
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this
medication.
It is unknown if this medication passes into breast
milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such
as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison
control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada
residents can call 1-844-764-7669.
Lab and/or medical tests may be done while you are using
this medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments.
It is important to get each dose of this medication as
scheduled. If you miss a dose, ask your doctor or pharmacist right away for
a new dosing schedule.
Not applicable. This medication is given in a hospital
or clinic or doctor's office and will not be stored at
home.