What is Carglumic acid?
Carglumic acid, a form of the enzyme found in the liver that is man-made, occurs naturally. This enzyme is required to process excess nitrogen that the body produces when it metabolises protein. Ammonia is formed when nitrogen is not removed from the body. Ammonia can be toxic to the blood and tissues and cause brain damage or even death.
Carglumic acid can be used to treat hyperammonemia (pronounced HIE-per AM MOE NEE ma), an imbalance in the urea cycle caused by low levels of an enzyme found in liver tissue. Carglumic acid is often given along with other medications in order to treat this chronic disorder. This medication guide does not list all possible uses of carglumic acid.
Side effects of Carglumic acid
If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction: difficulty breathing, hives or swelling on lips, face, tongue or throat - seek medical assistance immediately!
If you experience a serious adverse reaction, such as:
- Changes in mental status: sleepiness; loss of balance; involuntary eye movements
- Pancreatitis: severe pain spreading from your upper stomach to your back. Nausea, and vomiting.
- Low sugar—headache; sweating; irritability; and dizziness. Rapid heart rate.
- Signs of electrolyte depletion include increased thirst or urination; constipation; muscle cramps and weakness; as well as leg cramps or tingling. Other symptoms may include feeling jittery or jittery-like, having an irregular heartbeat, feeling fluttery in your chest, or feeling choked.
- Signs of an ear infection: fever, ear ache or fullness, difficulty hearing, drainage in the ear;
- Low red blood cells (anemia)--pale or pale skin, feeling tired or light-headed, or having cold hands or feet;
- Low white blood cell count—fever and mouth sores or skin sores a sore throat. Cough.
Carglumic acid can cause a number of side effects.
- Low blood sugar
- Anaemia;
- Electrolyte imbalance;
- Low white blood cell count
- Hearing problems, ear drainage, ear pain
- Abnormal lab tests;
- Nausea, stomach discomfort;
- Fever, infections;
- Feeling tired or weak, with a decreased level of alertness.
- Changes in mental state
- Headache
- Sore throat and stuffy nose
There may be other side effects. Call your physician immediately if experiencing side effects; for FDA reporting of adverse events please dial: 1-800-FDA-1088
Similar/related drugs
Sodium benzoate, sodium phenylacetate, ammonul, and carbaglu
Warnings
When you first begin taking carotene, avoid eating foods high in protein. You should follow your doctor's advice regarding any restrictions you may have on foods, drinks, or activities. Do not take carglumic acid if you miss a meal. Instead, wait until the next meal. You will need to test your blood often. An ammonia buildup in the bloodstream can cause death or brain damage.
Before you take this drug
Inform your doctor of all your medical conditions. Carglumic acid may be part of a comprehensive treatment programme that includes a special diet or other medications. Please follow the instructions from your doctor or dietitian. Find out what foods you should eat and avoid in order to control your condition.
If you're pregnant, follow your doctor’s advice about carglumic acid. Controlling your ammonia level is important during pregnancy. Do not stop taking carglumic without consulting your doctor. Also, tell your doctor immediately if you fall pregnant. You may find your name on a registry for pregnant women to track the effects carglumic acid has on the child. Breastfeeding may not be possible while taking this medication. You should ask your doctor if there are any risks.
How to take Carglumic acid?
Take time to carefully read all instructions or guides included with your medication and adhere to them.Sometimes, your doctor will change the dose. You must take the medication exactly as prescribed. Carglumic acid is taken between 2 and 4 times daily, right before meals or feedings. Please follow your doctor's advice. The dose of carglumic acid is based on body weight, especially in children and adolescents. As you gain or shed weight, your dose requirements could change accordingly.Children who are growing need to be adjusted for their doses.
The dispersible tablets should not be crushed or swallowed whole. Pour the tablet into a glass with water. It will not completely dissolve. This mixture should be consumed immediately. Pour a little water into the glass and swirl it gently. Then drink immediately. You can also take the dispersed tablet with a nasal syringe (NG) or an oral syringe. Please read and follow all directions provided with your medication, even if they seem confusing or vague. If necessary, ask for clarification from either your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
You will need to test your blood often. Ammonia buildup in the bloodstream can cause death or brain damage. A person who has a urea-cycle disorder should be under the care and supervision of a physician. Do not freeze unopened carglumic acid bottles.
Store the opened bottle at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Never store opened bottles in a refrigerator. Always keep the bottle closed when it is not being used. Write down the date when you open the container. If you have not used the tablets within 30 days of the date that they were opened or if the expiration dates on the label are past, throw them away.
What happens if I miss the dose?
You should take your dose as soon as you can, but only when you are about to eat. Skip the missed dose if you miss a meal and wait until the next meal.Do not take multiple doses at the same time.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 immediately if you suspect poison, or seek immediate medical treatment. Overdose symptoms include fever, excessive sweating, rapid heartbeat, mucus coughing, and restlessness.
What should be avoided?
When you start taking carglumic acids, avoid eating foods high in proteins. If your doctor prescribes any restrictions regarding food, beverage, or activity, follow their instructions.
Interaction with other drug
Carglumic acid can be affected by other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal remedies. Notify your doctor of all medications you are currently taking as well as those that you have begun or discontinued taking.
