Generic name:teduglutide [ TE-due-GLOO-tide ]
Drug class:Miscellaneous GI agents
What is Gattex?
Gattex is a man-made form of an amino acid that affects the processes of growth and function of cells in the stomach and intestines.
Gattex is a prescription medicine used to treat short bowel syndrome in adults and children at least 1 year old who depend on intravenous (parenteral) feeding to receive nutrition.
Warnings
You should not use Gattex if you are allergic to teduglutide, or if you have cancer of the stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, or pancreas.
Before using Gattex, tell your doctor if you have heart disease, kidney disease, intestinal polyps, a blockage in your stomach or intestines, a colostomy or ileostomy, or a history of gallbladder or pancrease problems.
Teduglutide can make it easier for your body to absorb any medicines you take by mouth. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.
Gattex may increase your risk of colon polyps (in your large intestine). You will need a colonoscopy before and during treatment with Gattex. Teduglutide may also increase your risk of certain types of cancer. Talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of this medicine.
Call your doctor at once if you have severe constipation, stomach cramps, fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, dark urine, or yellowing of your skin or eyes.
While using Gattex, you may need frequent blood tests (every 6 months), and then a colonoscopy after 1 year of treatment. If you use this medication long-term, you may need a colonoscopy every 5 years.
