Velaglucerase alfa
Generic name: velaglucerase alfa [ VEL-a-GLOO-ser-ase-AL-fa ]
Brand name: VPRIV
Dosage form: intravenous powder for injection (400 units)
Drug class:Lysosomal enzymes
What is velaglucerase alfa?
Velaglucerase alfa contains an enzyme that occurs naturally in the body in healthy people. Some people lack this enzyme because of a genetic disorder. Velaglucerase alfa helps replace this missing enzyme in people with Type I Gaucher disease.
Gaucher disease is a genetic condition in which the body lacks the enzyme needed to break down certain fatty materials (lipids). Lipids can build up in the body, causing symptoms such as easy bruising or bleeding, weakness, anemia, bone or joint pain, enlarged liver or spleen, or weakened bones that are easily fractured.
Velaglucerase may improve the condition of the liver, spleen, bones, and blood cells in people with Type I Gaucher disease. However, velaglucerase is not a cure for this condition.
Velaglucerase may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
An allergic reaction may occur during or shortly after infusion of velaglucerase alfa. Tell your caregivers or get emergency medical help right away if you have any signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as headache, dizziness, fever, nausea, feeling weak or tired, and feeling like you might pass out.
Before taking this medicine
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
It is not known whether velaglucerase alfa will harm an unborn baby. However, having untreated Type I Gaucher disease during pregnancy may cause complications such as miscarriage or stillbirth. Type I Gaucher disease also can get worse during pregnancy and may cause medical problems in both mother and baby. The benefit of treating this disease with velaglucerase alfa may outweigh any risks to the baby.
Velaglucerase alfa is not approved for use by anyone younger than 4 years old.
How is velaglucerase alfa given?
Velaglucerase alfa is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.
Velaglucerase alfa is usually given every other week. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions.
Velaglucerase alfa must be given slowly, and the infusion can take at least 1 hour to complete.
Velaglucerase alfa doses are based on weight (especially in children and teenagers). Your dose needs may change if you gain or lose weight.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Call your doctor for instructions if you miss an appointment for your velaglucerase alfa injection.
What happens if I overdose?
Since velaglucerase alfa is given by ...
