Adagen Information - Drugs and Treatments

PEGADEMASE - INJECTION

Common Brand Name(s): Adagen

Phonetic Pronunciation: (peg-ADD-eh-maze)

Information last revised November 2010

Uses:

Pegademase is used to treat a certain rare genetic immune system problem (severe combined immune deficiency disease-SCID). Pegademase replaces a certain natural substance (an enzyme called adenosine deaminase-ADA) that is missing in people with SCID. This medication increases the number of blood cells that prevent and fight infection (lymphocytes) by helping the body get rid of certain substances that kill lymphocytes. This medication does not help immune system problems due to other causes (e.g., AIDS, bone marrow depression).

Missed Dose

For the best possible benefit, it is important to receive each scheduled dose of this medication as directed. If you miss a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately to establish a new dosing schedule.

How To Use

This medication is injected into a muscle by a health care professional, usually once a week or as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition, weight, and response to treatment. This medication must be used as scheduled to maintain the proper enzyme level. Your doctor will order frequent blood tests to monitor your response and find the best dose for you. Keep all medical/lab appointments. Your immune system will usually improve slowly, and you should have fewer/less severe infections in 2 to 6 months.

Drug Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval. Some products that may interact with this drug include: vidarabine.

Notes

Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., plasma ADA levels, red blood cell dATP levels) should be performed periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US National Poison Hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

Precautions

Before using pegademase, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: clotting problems (e.g., low blood platelets). This medication may take several weeks or months to work. You may continue to be at an increased risk of infection even after the medication is working. Follow all of your doctor's advice for preventing infection. Wash your hands well, and avoid contact with people who currently have an infection. During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Storage

Not applicable. This medication is given in a clinic and will not be stored at home.

Side Effects

Bleeding/bruising/pain at the injection site and headache may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

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