Alglucerase (Injection)

Introduction:

Alglucerase (al-GLOO-ser-ase)

Treats Gaucher's disease (a lack of an enzyme that helps your body break down and use certain kinds of fat).

Brand Name(s):

Ceredase

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to alglucerase.

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use and how often.
  • An IV injection is medicine that is put in your body through a vein.
  • Alglucerase should be given by a health professional or by a person who has been trained to give an IV injection. It is usually injected slowly, over 1 to 2 hours.
  • Sometimes, you or a family member can be trained to give the medicine at home.
  • Avoid shaking the medicine bottle.

If a dose is missed:

  • Use the missed dose as soon as possible, unless it is almost time for your next dose.
  • Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next regular dose.
  • You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Before each injection, look carefully at the medicine. If you see any solid pieces or if the medicine has changed color, you should not use that medicine. Get a new bag or bottle of medicine.
  • If you get your IV at home, you should be given a special container for the used needles, medicine bags bottles, and tubes. Keep it where children or pets cannot reach it.
  • Store the medicine the refrigerator. Do not freeze. You should not use the medicine after the expiration date on the bottle has passed.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Talk with your doctor before using alglucerase if you have had prostate cancer.
  • If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using this medicine.
  • You may need to have your blood tested regularly to make sure the medicine is working and is not causing harmful side effects.
  • This medicine is made from human tissue that has been tested for viruses and treated to keep from spreading infections. The risk of getting an infection from this medicine is very low, but cannot be completely eliminated. Talk with your doctor if you have questions.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Chest pain
  • Wheezing or trouble breathing
  • Rash or hives
  • Swelling of your eyelids, lips, throat, or tongue
  • Painful stomach cramps
  • Fainting
  • Swelling, redness, or pus in the skin where the IV needle is placed

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Itching or burning in the skin where the IV needle is placed
  • Headache, dizziness
  • Weakness
  • Mild fever or chills
  • Nausea, vomiting
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