Carbaglu

Generic name:carglumic acid [ kar-GLOO-mik-AS-id ]
Drug class:Miscellaneous uncategorized agents

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 5, 2021.

What is Carbaglu?

Carbaglu is a man-made form of an enzyme that occurs naturally in the liver. This enzyme is necessary for processing excess nitrogen produced when the body metabolizes proteins. Without this enzyme, nitrogen builds up in the form of ammonia and is not removed from the body. Ammonia is very toxic when it circulates in blood and tissues and can cause permanent brain damage, coma, or death.

Carbaglu is used to treat hyperammonemia (HYE-per-AM-moe-NEE-mee-a), a urea cycle disorder caused by lack of a certain liver enzyme.

Carbaglu is usually given with other medications to treat this lifelong disorder.

Warnings

Avoid eating foods that are high in protein when you first start taking Carbaglu. Follow your doctor's instructions about any other restrictions on food, beverages, or activity. If you skip a meal, do not take your dose of Carbaglu. Wait until your next meal.

To be sure Carbaglu is helping your condition and is not causing harmful effects, your blood will need to be tested often. A buildup of ammonia in the blood can quickly cause brain injury or death. Do not miss any follow up visits to your doctor for blood tests. Every person with a urea cycle disorder should remain under the care of a doctor.

Tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions.

Before taking this medicine

Carbaglu is only part of a complete program of treatment that may also include a special diet and other medications. It is very important to follow the diet plan created for you by your doctor or nutrition counselor. You should become very familiar with the list of foods you should eat or avoid to help control your condition.

Follow your doctor's instructions about taking Carbaglu if you are pregnant. It is very important to control your ammonia levels during pregnancy. Do not stop taking this medicine without your doctor's advice, and tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant.

If you are pregnant, your name may be listed on a pregnancy registry to track the effects of carglumic acid on the baby.

It may not be safe to breastfeed while using Carbaglu. Ask your doctor about any risk.

How should I take Carbaglu?

Take Carbaglu 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. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Carbaglu is usually taken 2 to 4 times each day, just before each meal or feeding. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Carglumic acid doses are based on weight (especially in children and teenagers). Your dose needs may change if you gain or lose weight. Dose adjustments are especially important in children who are growing.

Do not crush or swallow the Carbaglu dispersible tablet whole. Place it into a glass of water and allow the tablet to disperse (it will not dissolve complet...