Mecasermin
Generic name: mecasermin [ ME-ka-SER-min ]
Brand name: Increlex
Dosage form: subcutaneous solution (10 mg/mL)
Drug class:Insulin-like growth factors
What is mecasermin?
Mecasermin is a man-made form of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), a substance that is normally produced in the body. IGF-1 is important for the growth of bones and muscles.
Mecasermin is used to treat growth failure in children whose bodies do not make enough IGF-1.
Mecasermin is not for use in children who have growth hormone deficiency, malnutrition, underactive thyroid, or those who are taking long-term steroid medications.
Mecasermin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Mecasermin should not be given to a child who has cancer, or a child who has finished growing (the bone growth plates are closed).
Before taking this medicine
Your child should not use mecasermin if he or she is allergic to it, or if:
the child has cancer; or
the child has finished growing and his or her bone growth plates are closed.
To make sure mecasermin is safe for your child, tell the doctor if the child has:
diabetes;
kidney disease;
liver disease; or
a curved spine (scoliosis).
It is not known whether mecasermin will harm an unborn baby if used during pregnancy.
It is not known whether mecasermin passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby.
Mecasermin is not approved for use by anyone younger than 2 years old.
How is mecasermin given?
Follow all directions on your prescription label. The doctor may occasionally change your child's dose for the best results. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Mecasermin is injected under the skin. You may be shown how to use injections at home. Do not give this medicine if you do not understand how to use the injection and properly dispose of used needles and syringes. Do not inject mecasermin into a vein.
Mecasermin is usually given twice per day, shortly before or after the child eats a meal or snack. Skip a dose if the child will miss a meal. Mecasermin can cause low blood sugar, which may be worse if the child does not eat.
Tell your doctor if your child has any changes in weight. Mecasermin doses are based on weight and any changes may affect the dose.
Your care provider will show you the best places on your child's body to inject mecasermin. Use a different place each time you give an injection....
