Hyaluronidase (Injection)

Introduction:

Hyaluronidase (hye-al-ure-ON-i-dase)

Helps your body absorb medicines that are injected into your skin.

Brand Name(s):

Hydase, Amphadase, Vitrase, Hylenex

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not receive this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to hyaluronidase, thimerosal, or beef proteins.

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

  • Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given as a shot under your skin.
  • A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.
  • Before receiving this medicine for the first time, you may be given a skin test to make sure you are not allergic to the medicine.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

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

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using furosemide (Lasix®), phenytoin (Dilantin®), or a sedative such as Valium® or Xanax®.
  • Tell your doctor if you are using aspirin, or similar medicines such as Asacol®, Colazal®, Dipentum®, Pentasa®, or Rowasa®. Tell your doctor if you are using cold or allergy medicine, hormone medicine, or a steroid medicine such as cortisone.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

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

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
  • Chills, dizziness, nausea, or vomiting.
  • Fast heartbeat.
  • Lightheadedness or fainting.
  • Pain under your skin while the shot is being given.
  • Swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet.

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

  • Mild skin rash, redness, or itching.
  • Pain, itching, burning, swelling, or a lump under your skin where the shot is given.
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