What is Gattex?
Gattex, a synthetic form of amino acid, affects the growth and function processes of the cells in the stomach. Gattex, a prescription medication, is used to treat Short Bowel Syndrome among adults and children older than 1 year who rely on intravenous feeding (parenteral nutrition) to get their nutrition.
Warnings
Gattex should not be used if you're allergic to teduglutide or have cancer in your stomach, intestines, or liver. Tell your doctor before using Gattex if you suffer from heart disease, kidney problems, intestinal polyps, or obstructions in the stomach or intestines. Also, mention if you've had a gallbladder problem or a pancreas problem. Teduglutide helps your body absorb medicines that you take orally. Inform your healthcare providers of all medications you are currently taking and those you plan to start using. Gattex can increase your risk of colon polyps in your large intestine. Before and during the treatment with Gattex, you will require a coloscopy. Teduglutide can also increase the risk of certain cancers. Speak to your doctor about this medication's risks and benefits. If you experience severe constipation or stomach cramps, or if your symptoms include fever, chills, or nausea, call your doctor immediately. You may require frequent blood tests while using Gattex (every six months) and a colonoscopy one year after treatment. You may need to have a colonoscopy at least every five years if you have been using this medication for a long time.
Before you take this drug
Gattex may cause abnormal cells to grow more quickly. Cancerous cells can develop from abnormal cells, increasing the risk of liver, gallbladder, or pancreatic cancer. Your doctor can tell you more about your risk. Gattex can also increase the risk of developing polyps (growths) in your colon. You will require a colonoscopy both before and after treatment with teduglutide. Speak to your doctor about this medication's risks and benefits.
Tell your doctor about any of the following to ensure that Gattex will be safe for you:
- Cancer;
- Polyps on your intestines and rectum
- A blockage of the digestive tract (stomach, intestines), colostomy
- Heart problems High blood pressure
- Kidney disease
- You may have problems with your pancreas or gallbladder.
The short-bowel syndrome increases your risk of malnutrition during pregnancy. This can lead to complications for both mother and child, such as premature birth, low birthweight, birth defects, or other complications. If you are pregnant, follow your doctor's advice about taking this medication. Breastfeeding mothers should not use this medicine.
Similar/related drugs
Somatropin, glutamine, teduglutide, and Zorbtive
How to take Gattex?
Follow the directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instructions sheets. Follow all instructions and directives included with your prescription medication.Follow the directions on your prescription label. Use the medication at the same time every day. Gattex can be injected into the skin. You may be taught by a healthcare provider how to use the medication properly or how to inject teduglutide into a child. Do not inject into veins or muscles. Please read and follow all instructions for use that come with your medication. If you do not understand the instructions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Before using Gattex, it must be mixed with a liquid. If you are using injections on your own, make sure that you know how to mix and store them. Mixed medicine must be consumed within three hours.
Only prepare an injection when you're ready to administer it. If the color of your medicine has changed or if it contains particles, do not use it. For new medication, call your pharmacist. Gattex may require you to have blood tests every six months. You may need to check your stools for blood every year. After one year, you may need to have a colonoscopy. If you are using Gattex for a long time, then every 5 years. Do not alter your dosage or schedule without consulting your doctor. Store the powder unmixed at room temperature. Do not freeze or shake the vial. Gattex that has not been used by the date of expiration is thrown away. Each vial is only for one-time use. After one use, throw it out, even if the medicine is still inside. Only use a needle or syringe once, and then store them in an "as sharps" container that is puncture-proof. Be sure to follow local or state laws on how to properly dispose of the container. Keep the container out of the reach of pets and children.
Details on dosage
Usual Adult Dose for Short Bowel Syndrome:
Subcutaneous injection of 0.05 mg/kg once daily
Comments:
The injection sites can include the quadrants of the abdomen, thighs, arms, and hands.
Avoid IV administration and IM administration.
Patients should not take two doses on the same day.
Use: Treatment for patients with short-bowel syndrome who require parenteral support
What happens if I miss the dose?
Do not use two doses at once. Never use two doses of the same medicine at once.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.
What should be avoided?
If your doctor prescribes any restrictions regarding food, beverage, or activity, follow their instructions.
Side effects of Gattex
If you experience any of the following: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your lips, face, tongue, or throat, please seek emergency medical attention.
If you experience:
- Constipation, stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting are all symptoms of severe constipation.
- Feeling short of breath, swelling in the hands and feet, or rapid weight gain
- A change in bowel movements;
- Severe pain spreading from your upper abdomen to your back
- Fever, chills;
- Dark urine or yellowing skin or eyes.
Gattex can cause a variety of side effects.
- An allergic reaction
- Stomach pain or swelling
- Nausea, vomiting;
- Cold or flu symptoms
- You may experience swelling in your hands or feet.
- Pain, swelling, redness, or other irritation at the injection site
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.
Interaction with other drug
Teduglutide may make it easier for you to absorb medicines that you take orally, which can cause an increase in blood levels or unwanted side effects. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are taking and those that you have stopped using. You should tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking, including prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal remedies.
