Signifor
Generic name:pasireotide [ PAS-i-REE-oh-tide ]
Brand names: Signifor, Signifor LAR
Drug class:Somatostatin and somatostatin analogs
What is Signifor?
Signifor is a man-made protein that is similar to a hormone in the body called somatostatin. Pasireotide lowers certain hormone substances produced in the body.
Signifor is used to treat Cushing's disease or acromegaly (endocrine disorders).
Signifor is usually given after surgery or other treatments have been tried without success.
Warnings
Signifor may lower your cortisol levels. Tell your doctor if you have symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, appetite changes, headache, irritability, confusion, slurred speech, or feeling weak, tired, unsteady, anxious, shaky, or light-headed.
Signifor can raise your blood sugar and may cause diabetes. Your blood sugar may need to be tested before and during treatment with this medicine. Call your doctor if you have increased thirst or urination, tiredness, and weight loss even if you are more hungry than usual.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Signifor if you are allergic to pasireotide.
To make sure Signifor is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
diabetes, or high blood sugar;
heart problems;
gallstones; or
an electrolyte imbalance (such as low levels of potassium or magnesium in your blood).
It is not known whether pasireotide will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
Pasireotide may alter hormone levels in a premenopausal woman and may increase the risk of unintended pregnancy. Talk to your doctor about your risk.
You should not breast-feed while using Signifor.
How is Signifor given?
Use Signifor exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose.
Your doctor will perform blood tests to make sure you do not have conditions that would prevent you from safely using pasireotide.
Signifor is injected under the skin, usually twice per day. A healthcare provider can teach you how to properly use the medication by yourself.
Signifor LAR is injected into a muscle once every 4 weeks. A healthcare provider will give you this type of long acting injection.
Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Do not use this medicine if you don't understand all instructions for proper use. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if...
