This medication is used by people with a certain
inherited condition (Pompe disease) to reduce high levels of a certain
substance (glycogen) that builds up in the body. High levels of glycogen in
the body may cause muscle weakness, heart problems, and breathing problems.
Alglucosidase alfa works by breaking down glycogen.
Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from
your pharmacist before you start using alglucosidase alfa and each time you
get an infusion. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or
pharmacist.
This medication is given by injection into a vein by a
health care professional. It is given as directed by your doctor, usually
once every 2 weeks. It is injected slowly into a vein over 4 hours. The
dosage is based on your medical condition, weight, and response to
treatment.
Infusion reactions may happen during the infusion of
this drug and for a short time afterward. Tell your doctor right away if
you have any symptoms of infusion reactions such as shortness of breath,
fever, chills, muscle/joint pain, flushing, fast heartbeat, headache or
nausea. 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.
See also Warning and How To Use sections.
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.
Alglucosidase alfa can commonly cause a rash that is
usually not serious. However, you may not be able to tell it apart from a
rare rash that could be a sign of a severe reaction. Get medical help right
away if you develop any rash.
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.
See also Warning section.
Before using alglucosidase alfa, 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.
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).
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only
when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your
doctor.
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 (such as urine tests,
immunoglobulin levels) should 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 clinic or
doctor's office and will not be stored at home.