What is Cerezyme?
Cerezyme, a synthetic form of a naturally occurring enzyme in the body, is used to treat Type I Gaucher disease. It is used to replace the enzyme in people who have Type 1 Gaucher disease. Gaucher disease (also known as lipidosis) is a genetic disorder in which the body does not produce the enzyme required to break down certain fats. Lipid buildup in the body can cause symptoms like easy bleeding or bruising, weakness, anaemia, and joint or bone pain. Cerezyme can improve the condition of the blood, liver, spleen, and bones of people with Gaucher type I disease. This medicine does not cure this condition. Cerezyme can be used in other ways than those described in this guide.
Warnings
Cerezyme has been associated with allergic reactions, including dizziness, fainting, and difficulty breathing. About 15% of patients who receive cerezyme will develop antibodies against imiglucerase. About 46% of patients who had detectable antibodies had an allergic reaction. If an allergic reaction occurs, emergency medical attention is required. Please read all instructions printed on your medication's package or label carefully and adhere to them strictly. Inform your healthcare provider about your medical conditions, allergies, and medicines.
Cerezyme should not be used if you have an allergy to imiglucerase.
Tell your doctor about any of the following to ensure that Cerezyme will be safe for you:
- A breathing problem, such as pneumonia or hypertension of the lungs.
Cerezyme is in FDA pregnancy category C. There is no information on whether Cerezyme can harm an unborn child. If you plan to get pregnant or are already pregnant, tell your doctor. There is no way to know if imiglucerase can pass into breast milk or if it will harm a baby who is nursing. Inform your doctor if your baby is breastfed. Cerezyme shouldn't be given to children younger than 2 years old without the doctor's approval.
How to take Cerezyme?
Cerezyme can be injected through an IV into a vein. Healthcare provider will administer this injection. Cerezyme can be taken every two weeks. However, you may require it more frequently when you start taking the medication. Do not forget to follow your doctor's instructions. Cerezyme may be prescribed with other medications to reduce certain side effects. These medicines should be taken exactly as prescribed. Inform your doctor of any weight changes. Cerezyme dosages are determined by weight.
Details on dosage
Adult dose for Gaucher disease:
Initial dosage ranges between 2.5 units per kilogrammeme of body weight three times a week and 60 units per kilogrammeme every two weeks. Imiglucerase injections are administered intravenously over a period of 1 to 2 hours.
The dosage should be tailored to the patient. The severity of the disease may dictate that a high dose be administered or that it be given more frequently.
The usual paediatric dose for Gaucher disease:
Age greater than or equal to 2 years:
Initial dosage ranges between 2.5 units per kilogrammeme of body weight three times a week and 60 units per kilogrammeme every two weeks. Imiglucerase injections are administered intravenously over a period of 1 to 2 hours.
The dosage should be tailored to the patient. The severity of the disease may dictate that a high dose be administered or a frequent dosage.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you forget to take a Cerezyme dose, call your doctor.
What happens if I overdose?
Overdoses are unlikely because this medicine is administered by a health professional in a medical environment.
What should be avoided?
If your doctor prescribes any restrictions regarding food, beverage, or activity, follow their instructions.
Side effects of Cerezyme
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of your lips, face, or throat; swelling of the tongue, face, or lip Some side effects can occur immediately after or during the injection. You should tell your carer if you experience dizziness, itchiness, lightheadedness, sweating, chest pain, difficulty breathing, or flushing.
If you experience:
- Fever, chills, and coughs with yellow or green mucus
- If you have stabbing pain in the chest, wheezing, or feeling short of breath, this could be a sign.
- Gaucher disease symptoms can worsen or not improve.
Cerezyme may cause side effects such as:
- Stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea;
- Fast heartbeats;
- Headache, dizziness;
- Back pain
- Fever, chills, and tiredness
- Mild rash
- Itching, burning, swelling, or other discomfort around an IV needle
Interaction with other drug
Other drugs, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, herbal products, vitamins, and supplements, may also interact with imiglucerase. Inform your healthcare providers of all medications you are taking and those you plan to take.
