Glucarpidase
Generic name: glucarpidase [ gloo-KAR-pi-dase ]
Brand name: Voraxaze
Dosage form: intravenous powder for injection (1000 units)
Drug class:Antidotes
What is glucarpidase?
Glucarpidase is used in patients who develop kidney failure while receiving high doses of methotrexate (a chemotherapy drug).
Glucarpidase is an enzyme that breaks down methotrexate in the body so the drug can be easily eliminated when the kidneys are not working properly.
Glucarpidase may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
If possible before you receive glucarpidase, tell your doctor if you are also being treated with leucovorin.
Tell your caregiver right away if you have any symptoms of a reaction to the glucarpidase injection: severe dizziness or weakness, severe nausea, cold sweat, itching, numbness or tingly feeling, sudden headache, fast heartbeats, chest tightness, trouble breathing, or if you feel like you might pass out.
Before taking this medicine
If possible before you receive glucarpidase, tell your doctor if you are also being treated with leucovorin.
In an emergency, you may not be able to tell caregivers if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Make sure any doctor caring for your pregnancy or your baby knows you received glucarpidase.
How is glucarpidase given?
Glucarpidase is given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection. Glucarpidase is usually given as a single injection. The IV infusion will take about 5 minutes to complete.
You may also be given a medicine called leucovorin, either 2 hours before or 2 hours after you receive a glucarpidase injection.
To make sure this medication is helping your condition and not causing harmful effects, your blood will need to be tested often. Do not miss any follow-up visits to your doctor.
This medicine can affect the results of certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using glucarpidase.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Since glucarpidase is used as a single dose, it does not have a daily dosing schedule.
What happens if I overdose?
Since this medication is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to occur.
What should I avoid after receiving glucarpidase?
Follow your doctor's instructions abou...
