Vimizim
Generic name:elosulfase alfa [ EE-loe-SUL-face-AL-fa ]
Drug class:Lysosomal enzymes
What is Vimizim?
Vimizim contains an enzyme that occurs naturally in the body in healthy people. Some people lack this enzyme because of a genetic disorder. Elosulfase alfa helps replace this missing enzyme in such people.
Vimizim is used to treat some of the symptoms of a genetic condition called mucopolysaccharidosis IV (4) type A, or MPS IV A, also called Morquio A syndrome.
MPS IVA is a metabolic disorder in which the body lacks the enzyme needed to break down certain natural substances. These substances can build up in the body, causing enlarged organs, abnormal bone structure, changes in facial features, breathing problems, heart problems, vision or hearing loss, and changes in mental or physical abilities.
Vimizim may improve walking and stair-climbing ability in people with this condition. However, this medication is not a cure for MPS IVA.
Warnings
An allergic reaction may occur during or shortly after infusion of Vimizim. Tell your caregivers or get emergency medical help right away if you have any signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as chest discomfort, cough, trouble breathing, vomiting, skin rash or redness, pale skin, blue lips or fingernails, and feeling like you might pass out.
You may be more likely to have a reaction to Vimizim if you have a breathing disorder, or if you are sick with a fever at the time of your infusion.
Your breathing, blood pressure, and other vital signs will be watched closely during and after the infusion, so your caregivers can quickly treat any serious side effects that occur.
Before taking this medicine
Your Vimizim infusion may be delayed if you have a fever or cold symptoms.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
breathing problems; or
sleep apnea, and you use a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
It is not known whether elosulfase alf will harm an unborn baby. However, MPS symptoms can get worse during pregnancy and may cause medical problems in both mother and baby. The benefit of treating MPS may outweigh any risks to the baby.
Your name may need to be listed on a Morquio A Registry while you are using this medicine. The purpose of this registry is to track the progression of this disorder and the effects that elosulfase alfa has on long-term treatment of Morquio A syndrome. The registry also tracks the effects of elosulfase alfa on a baby if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
How is Vimizim given?
Vimizim is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.
The infusion must be given slowly, and can t...
