Imiglucerase is used to treat a certain rare genetic problem (Gaucher disease). Imiglucerase replaces a certain natural substance (an enzyme called glucocerebrosidase) that is missing in people with Gaucher disease.

This medication improves blood, bone, liver, and spleen problems caused by Gaucher disease. Imiglucerase does not correct the genetic problem, and treatment must be continued for life.

This medication is given by injection into a vein by a health care professional. It is injected slowly into a vein over 1 to 2 hours as directed by your doctor. The dosage and how often it is given depends on your weight, medical condition, and response to treatment. Follow your doctor's directions carefully.

Infusion reactions may happen during the infusion of this drug and for a short time afterward. Tell your doctor right away if you have symptoms of infusion reactions such as shortness of breath, cough, flushing, dizziness, high blood pressure, or fast heartbeat. Your doctor may give you other medications to help with these side effects or may slow down or stop your treatment for some time.

Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse. Blood, liver, and spleen problems usually improve in the first year of treatment. It may take 2 to 3 years of treatment to see the full benefit to your bones.

See also Warning and How to Use sections.

Fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, swelling of the hands/feet (edema), or redness/pain/itching/swelling at the injection site may 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.

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 imiglucerase, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to alglucerase; 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.

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 may pass 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 IgG antibodies) should be done while you are using this medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.

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.