What is Vimizim?
Vimizim is a supplement that contains an enzyme found in the healthy body. A genetic disorder can cause some people to lack this enzyme. Elosulfase Alfa helps replace the missing enzyme.Vimizim is used to manage some of the symptoms associated with mucopolysaccharidosis IV (4) type A, commonly referred to as Morquio A syndrome.
MPS IVA, also known as metabolic disorder, is a condition in which the body does not have the enzymes required to break down natural substances. These substances can accumulate in the body and cause enlarged organs or abnormal bone structure. They may also lead to breathing problems, heart issues, vision problems, or loss of hearing.Vimizim can improve the ability to walk and climb stairs for those with this condition. This medication is not a treatment for MPS-IVA.
Warnings
Vimizim can cause an allergic reaction during or immediately after the infusion. Get emergency medical attention if you experience any symptoms of an allergic reaction.Vimizim can cause a reaction if the patient has a respiratory disorder or is sick at the time of infusion.
Your vital signs, such as your breathing, blood pressure, and other vital indicators, will be closely monitored during and after the infusion so that you can receive immediate treatment if any serious side effects occur.
Before you take this drug
Vimizim may be delayed in infusion if you are suffering from a cold or other symptoms.
Tell your doctor about any of the following:
- Breathing problems
- Sleep apnea and use of a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) device
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or nursing.
Elosulfase AL-F can harm a baby that is still unborn. MPS symptoms may worsen during pregnancy, causing medical issues for both the mother and child. Treatment of MPS can be beneficial to both mother and baby.
You may be required to list your name on the Morquio A Registry if you use this medication. This registry tracks the progression of the disorder and its effects on long-term treatment for Morquio-A Syndrome. The registry tracks the effects elosulfase has on your baby, whether you're pregnant or nursing.
Similar/related drugs
Elosulfase Alpha
How to take Vimizim?
Vimizim can be infused into a vein. This injection will be given by a healthcare provider.Infusions can take 4 hours or more to complete.Vimizim should be taken once a week. Please follow your doctor's directions.Weight is taken into account when determining Vimizim dosage (especially for children and adolescents). Your dose requirements could shift if you gain or lose weight, depending on how it impacts the rest of your health.
You will receive other medications 30–60 minutes before the injection to prevent an allergic reaction.After receiving Vimizim, you will be closely monitored to ensure that you don't have an allergic response.
Details on dosage
Usual Adult Dose for Mucopolysaccharidosis Type IV:
Infusion of 2 mg/kg intravenously once a week
Comments:
Pretreatment with antihistamines, with or without an antipyretic, is recommended between 30 and 60 minutes prior to starting the infusion.
See Other Comments/Administration Advice for recommended dilution volume and infusion rates
Use: MPS IVA; Morquio A syndrome) patients.
Usual Paediatric Dose for Mucopolysaccharidosis Type IV:
5 years and older: 2 mg/kg by IV infusion, once a week.
Comments:
Pretreatment with antihistamines, with or without an antipyretic, is recommended between 30 and 60 minutes prior to starting the infusion.
See Other Comments/Administration Advice for recommended dilution volume and infusion rates
Use: For patients with mucopolysaccharidosis, IVA (MPS IVA; Morquio A syndrome)
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you are unable to attend your Vimizim appointment, call your doctor.
What happens if I overdose?
Overdoses are unlikely because this medication 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 Vimizim
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your lips, face, tongue, or throat, contact emergency medical assistance.
A severe allergic reaction can occur immediately after or during the infusion (up to three hours later). If you experience any of the following symptoms, tell your carers immediately or seek emergency medical attention.
- Feeling like you could pass out even when lying down
- Feeling short of breath, coughing, or chest discomfort
- Skin rash, redness, or sudden warmth
- Nausea, vomiting;
- Pale skin;
- Blue lips or fingernails.
Vimizim may cause side effects such as:
- Nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain;
- Headache;
- Fever, chills,
- Feeling tired?
Vimizim may not cause this side effect, but it can lead to increased pressure on your spinal cord. If you experience any of the symptoms of spinal compression, tell your doctor immediately.
- Backache
- Loss of mobility in any part of the body
- Loss of bladder or bowel control.
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
Other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal products, may interact with elosulfase. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are taking and those that you stop or start using.
