Metreleptin

Generic name: metreleptin [ MET-re-LEP-tin ]
Brand name: Myalept
Dosage form: subcutaneous powder for injection (11.3 mg)
Drug class:Miscellaneous metabolic agents

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Aug 3, 2020. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is metreleptin?

Metreleptin is used together with diet to treat complications caused by leptin deficiency in people who have lipodystrophy (also called fat redistribution). Lipodystrophy (LIP-oh-DIS-tro-fee) is a problem with the way the body stores fat.

Metreleptin is not for use in people who are obese or have lipodystrophy caused by HIV or AIDS.

Metreleptin is available only under a special program. You must be registered in the program and understand the risks and benefits of metreleptin.

Metreleptin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

In some people, metreleptin can trigger an immune response to the medicine, making it less effective or causing certain side effects. Call your doctor if you develop any signs of a new infection (fever, chills, night sweats, weight loss, swollen glands, flu symptoms), or worsening of your lipodystrophy symptoms. If you are diabetic, tell your doctor if you have any changes in your blood sugar levels.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use metreleptin if you are allergic to it. Metreleptin is not for use in treating obesity that is unrelated to leptin deficiency.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• a blood cell disorder, or low white blood cell (WBC) counts;

• liver disease (including "fatty liver");

• diabetes (especially if you use insulin or oral diabetes medicine);

• pancreatitis;

• high triglycerides (a type of fat in the blood);

• any other metabolic disorder;

• an autoimmune disorder such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or psoriasis;

• bone marrow suppression; or

• lymphoma (cancer of the lymph nodes).

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Having lipodystrophy may increase complications such as miscarriage, stillbirth, high birth weight, diabetes, or eclampsia (dangerously high blood pressure that can lead to medical problems in both mother and baby). The benefit of treating lipodystrophy may...