This medication is used to treat thyroid eye disease,
also known as Graves' eye disease. Teprotumumab belongs to a class of drugs
known as monoclonal antibodies. It is not known exactly how it works, but
it may help improve symptoms such as a feeling of irritation or grittiness
in the eyes, redness or swelling of the white part of the eyeball
(conjunctiva), excessive tearing or dry eyes, swelling of the eyelids,
sensitivity to light, bulging of the eyes, or double
vision.
This medication is given by injection into a vein by a
healthcare professional as directed by your doctor, usually every 3 weeks
for 8 doses. The injection is usually given over 60 to 90 minutes. The
dosage is based on your medical condition, weight, and response to
treatment.
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.
Muscle spasms, nausea, tiredness, weakness, change in
how food tastes, or dry skin may occur. If any of these effects last or get
worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Injection reaction symptoms such as increased blood
pressure, fast heartbeat, feeling hot, headache, and muscle pain may also
occur. Tell your doctor right away if you have any of these symptoms. Your
doctor may direct you to take other medications (such as acetaminophen,
antihistamines) before each dose to decrease the risk of side
effects.
Temporary hair loss may occur. Normal hair growth should
return after treatment has ended.
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:
- bowel problems (such as diarrhea, bloody stools, abdominal
pain/cramps, or incontinence)
- hearing problems (such as ringing in the ears, hearing
loss)
- menstrual period changes (such as missed/stopped periods,
spotting)
This medication may rarely make your blood sugar rise,
which can cause or worsen diabetes. Tell your doctor right away if you have
symptoms of high blood sugar, such as increased thirst/urination. If you
already have diabetes, check your blood sugar regularly as directed and
share the results with your doctor. Your doctor may need to adjust your
diabetes medication, exercise program, or diet.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
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 teprotumumab, 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:
- bowel problems (such as inflammatory bowel disease-IBD)
- diabetes
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 or plan to become
pregnant. You should not become pregnant while using teprotumumab.
Teprotumumab may harm an unborn baby. Ask about reliable forms of birth
control before and while using this medication and for 6 months after the
last dose. If you become pregnant, talk to your doctor right away about the
risks and benefits of 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.
Do not share this medication with others.
Lab and/or medical tests (such as eye exams, hearing
tests, blood sugar) may be done before you start using this medication and
while you are using it. 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.